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University  of  California  •  Berkeley 

THE  PETER  AND  ROSELL  HARVEY 
MEMORIAL  FUND 


Pr/- 


MESSAGE 


OF     THE 


GOVERNOR 


0  F 


WASHINGTON  TERRITORY. 


ALSO; 


THE  CORRESPONDENCE  WITH  THE -SECRETARY  OF  WAR,  MAJOR  GEN, 

WOOL,  THE  OFFICERS  OF  THE  REGULAR  ARMY,  AND  oV  THE 

VOLUNTEER  SERVICE  OF  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY. 

' 

I 
4 


OLYMPIA;  i 

EDWARD   FURSTE,  PUBLIC  PRINTER 


1857. 


f 

f     f 


CONTENTS. 


I.  SECRETARY  OF  THE  INTERIOR. 


PAGE. 


:  rotn  Gov.  Stevens  to  the  Secretary  of  the  Interior  m  reference  to  the  order  of   , 
Lieut.  Col.  Steptce,  published  in  pursuance  of  instructions  from  Gen.  Wool, 
forbidding  American  citizens  to  settle  in  the  Walla  Walla  country,  October 


22d,  1856. 


II.     SECRETARY  OP  WAR. 


From  Governor  Stevens  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  making  requisition  for  arms 

id  ammunition,  Aug.  15,  1854.  60 

Answer  of  the  Secretary  of  War,  declining  to  comply  with  requisition,  August  18, 

1S54.  61 

Extracts  of  letter  from  Gov.  Stevens  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  setting  forth  the  im 

portance  of  a  military  pest  at  the  Waila  Walla,  Dec.  21,  1854.  61 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  giving  a  detailed  account  of  the  re- 
tarn  of  Gov.  Stevens  and  party  from  the  Blackfoot  council  ;  the  course  par- 
sued  by  Gen.  Wool  ;  the  state  of  the  Indian  war,  and  condition  of  the  country, 
Feb.  19,  1856.  •  62 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  in  reference  to  the  present  condition 

of  the  volunteer  service  of  Washington  Territory,  March  9,  1856.  68 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  giving  an  account  of  the  military  ope 
rations  ia  the  Territory  and  his  views  as  to  the  measures  necessary  to  conquer 
a  pennanent  peace,  March  21,  185G.  70 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  developing  the  probable  character  of 

the  Indian  difficulty,  and  the  measures  of  precaution  to  meet  it,  May  23d,  1856.        77 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  the  Secretary  of  War;  transmitting  estimates  of  the  proba 

ble  cost  of  the  war,  May  23d,  1856.  81 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  in  reference  to  the  proposed  expedi 
tion  to  the  interior,  and  referring  to  the  delays  of  CoL  Wright  in  the  Yakiina, 
June  S  1856.  82 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  announces  the  movement  of  the  two 
columns  from  the  Sound  and  from  the  Dalles,  as  also  the  movements  of  the 
hostile  Indians,  July  7,  1856, 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  the  Secretary  of  War;   announces  the  dLsbandment  of  the 

volunteers  on  the  Sound,  July  24,  1856.  w  * 


II  CONTENTS. 

PAGE. 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  refers  to  the  indecisive  and  procras 
tinating  course  of  Col.  Wright,  in  connection  with  ths  previous  report  of  June 
8tli,  and  announces  the  success  of  the  Walla  Walla  expedition,  Aug.  14, 1856.  85 

From  Governor  Stevens  to  the  Secretary  of  war,  reviews  the  operations  of  the 
troops  both  regular  and  volunteer,  east  of  the  Cascades,  and  announces  the 
failure  of  the  Walla  Walla  Council,  Oct.  22d,  1850.  87 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  protesting  against  the  talk  of  Col. 
Wright  in  the  Walla  Walla,  "  that  the  treaty  ought  not  to  be  insisted  upon,"   | 
Nov.  21,  1S58.  94 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  announces  that  the  public  property 

brought  at  public  auction  more  than  the  original  cost,  Nov,  21,  1856.  £5 

To  the  Secretnry  of  War  from  Gov.  Stevens,  transmitting  his  letter  to  Gen.  Wool, 
of  the  22d  of  May,  1855,  urging  the  establishment  of  a  military  post  at  the 
Walla  Walla,  Nov.  21, 1856.  96 

III.     GOVERNOR  OF  OREGON. 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  Geo.  L.  Curry  'r  proposed  movement  of  troops,  97 

From  Gen.McCarver  to  Gov.  Stevens,  offering  to  co-operate  with  officers  of  W.  T. 

volunteers.  97 

Frcm  Gov.  Curry  to  Gov.  Stevens — supplies  at  San  Francisco.  98 

From  Gov.  Curry  to  Governor  Stevens  ;  attack  on  the  Cascades.  98 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  Governor  Curry  ;  good  relations  between  Oregon  and  Wash-    fl| 
ton  Territory.  5)D 

IV.     GOVERNOR  OF  VANCOUVER'S  ISLAND. 

• 

From  Gen.  Tilton  to  Gov.  Douglas  ;  requisition  for  arms  and  a  steamer,  Nov.  1st, 

1655.  100 

Gov.  Douglass  to  Gen.  Tiiton  ;  sends  arms,  &c.,  Nov.  6, 1855.  101 

Gov.  Douglass  to  Gen.  Tilton  ;  sends  steamer,  Nov.  19, 1855.  102 

Gov.  Mason  to  Governor  Douglass  ;  acknowledgments  and  state  of  the  war,  Nov. 

2ad,  1855.  1C3 

V.     OFFICERS  OF  THE  NAVY  AND  REVENUE  SERVICE. 

Gov.  Mason  to  Capt.  I.  S.  Sterret  ;  requisition  for  arms,  ammunition,  &c.,  October 

14th, 1855.  103 

Gov.  Mason  to  Capt.  Pease  ;  requisition  for  arms,  ammunition,  &c.,  October  14th, 

1855.  104 

Capt.  Slerret  to  Gov.  Mason;  sends  invoice  of  arms,  &c.,  Oct.  15th,  1855.  104 

Capt.  Pease  to  Gov.  Mason  ;  sends  invoice  of  arms,  &c.,  Oct.  15th,  1855.  104 

Capt.  Pease  to  Gov.  Mason  ;  can  land  tv/enty  men  whenever  required,  October  17, 

1855 .  105 

Gov.  Mason  to  Capt.  Stcrrett  stating  that  Major  Haller  had  been  defeated  ;  sug 
gesting  that  "  Decatur '  remain  at  Seattle  until  further  information,  October 
18th,  1855.  105 

Gov.  Mason  to  Capt.  Pease,  stating  defeat  of  Major  Haller,  suggesting  that  the 

"  Jeff.  Davis"  cruise  from  Port  Townsend  to  Bellingham  Bay,  Oct.  18,  1855.  106 


CONTENTS.  Ill 

PAGE. 
Gov.  Mason  to  Capt.  Sterrett,  reqncsting  that  marines  may  be  stationed  at  Fort 

Steilacoom,  Oct.  10th,  1>55.  107 

Capt.  Pease  to  Adj't  Gen.  Tilton,  sends  two  121b  guns  ;  suggests  calling  out  volun 
teers  ;  offers  provisions  ;  Nesqually  Indians  joining  the  hostilea,  October 
31st,  IcGo.  103 


Gov.  Mason  to  Commanding  officer,  Pacific   squadron  ;  asl:s  that  another  ship  of 

war  be  stationed  on  tlie  Sound,  Nov.  3d,  1855.  108 

Capt.  Sterrett  to  Governor  Mason  ;  has  received  petition  from  Port  Tcwnsend;  will 

cruise  there  and  other  ports  ;  people  want  arms,  Nov.  14.th,  1855.  109 

Capt.  Sterrett  to  Gov.  Ma>on  •  12  Ib.  gun  piirc;  ase.l  and  monnted  at  Seattle  :  will 
cruise  at  ports  on  the  Sound  ;  wants  authority  to  take  Territorial  arms,  Nov. 
lith,  1855.  110 

Gov.  Mason  to  Capt.  Gansevoort  ;  requests  co-operation  in  removing  Indians  from 

est  side  of  Sonnd  ;  Indian  agents  directed  to  a&k  for  assistance  ;  list 
I   of  «t.geiUd,  Dec.  28th,  1855.  110 


Gov.  Stevens  to  Capt.  Gansevoort,  requests  him  to  send  the  Active  to  Pert  Town- 
send  to  take  Capt.Ebey's  company  to  the  mouth  of  the  Snohomish,  Feb.  16th, 


Ill 


G.;\.  Stevens  to  Capt.  Gansevoort, apprehends  a  descent  of  Northern  Indians  ;  re- 
(i\  ;.ra  that  the  Active  be  kept  cruising  in  lower  part  of  Sound,  February  17, 
1850.  112 

Acfjt.  General  Tilton  to  Captain  Alden,  asks  for  spare  percussion  caps  and  powder, 

also,  to  take  Territorial  arms  to  Columbia  river, March  2d,  1856.  113 

Captain  Alden  to  General  Tilton  ;  sends  15  Ibs,  powder,  all  that  is  onboard  ;  has 
been  supplying  Captain  Howe's  company  ;  will  take  Territorial  arms  to  San 
Francisco,  and  re-ship  them  to  the  Columbia  river,  March  3d,  1856.  113 

Governor  Stevens  to  Captain  Swartwout,  sends  Col.  Crosbie  to  confer  relative  to 

combined  naval  and  military  movement  from  Seattle,  March  15th,  1856.  114 

Captain  Swartwout  to  Governor  Stevens  ;  is  directed  to  act  in  concert  with  forces 

under  General  Wool ;  declines  acceding  to  proposed  plan,  March  16th,  1856.  115 

Captain  Pease  to  General  Tilton  ;  asks  for  return  of  guns,  March  22d,  1856.  116 

Genera!  Tilton  to  Captain  Pease  ;  asks  that  the  guns  may  be  retained, .as  they  give 

a  feeling  o?  security  to  the  inhabitants,  March  31st,  1856.  116 

Captain  P«ase  to  General  Tilton  ;  consents  to  let  the  guns  remain  ;  asks  that  they 

be  returned  when  danger  is  over,  April  2d,  1856.  11T 

Captain  Pease  to  Governor  Stevens  ;  enclosing  copy  of  letter  from  Secretary  of 

Treasury,  March  30th,  1856.  118 

Governor  Stevens  to  Captain  S^artwont ;  infonns  him  that  the  Cascades  have  been 
taken  ;  that  Col.  Simmons,  Indian  agent,  is  about  to  make  a  tour  of  inspec 
tion  on  reservations  ;  asks  him  to  cruise  about  the  Sound,  and  to  send  a  vessel 
to  carry  Col.  S.  to  reservations,  March  30th,  1856.  118 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Capt.  Swarfcwout ;  notifies  him  of  appointment  of  H.  Haley  as  In 
dian  agent  at  Seattle.  11* 

Capt.  Swartwout  to  Gov.  Stevens  ;  will  cruise  actively  to  prevent  hostilities,  and 

defend  Seattle;  has  ordered  the  "John  Hancock"  to  Olympia,  April  1st,  .1856.       120 

Captain  Swartwout  to  Governor  Stevens ;  in  complyance  with  letter  from  Mr.  Ha- 


!Y  CONTENTS. 

PAGE. 

ley,  had  sent  "  John  Hancock  "  to  reservation,  and  taken  two  Indian  prisoners; 

eends  them  to  Olympia,  April  20th.  1856. 
Gov.  Stevens  to  Capt.  Swartwout;  thanks  for  prompt  action  in  case  of  Indians, 

April  26, 1856. 
Governor  Stevens  to  Captain  Swartwout ;  thanks  for  promptitude  in  despatching 

Hancock  to  Holme's  Harbor,  and  for  information  of  murders  committed  on 

White  River,  June  2d,  1856.  m 

Governor  Stevens  to  Captain  Swartwout,  regarding  Walla  Walla  Council ;  thanks 

for  active  co-operation  of  navul  forces, -August  31st,  1856.  122 

Captain  Swartwout  to  Governor  Stevens  ;  reply  to  above  ;  has  recommended  to 

Secretary  of  War  to  keep  one  vessel  on  this  station,  September  17th,  1856."  123 

Captain  Swartwout  to  Gov.  S  ;  report  of  battle  with  the  Northern  Indians  at 

Port  Gamble,  November  23d,  1856.  124 

VI.     GEN.  WOOL,  COMMANDING  DEPARTMENT  OF  THE 

PACIFIC. 

v,te' 

general  Wool  to  Governor  of  Washington  Territory  ;  will  establish  a  post  at  Bel- 

lingham  Bay  as  soon  as  practicable,  Sept.  18th,  1855.  130 

Governor  Mason  to  General  Wool ;  asking  for  ammunition,  and  that  more  troops 

be  sent  to  the  Sound,  October  20th,  1855.  130 

Governor  Stevens  to  General  Wool,  urging  him  to  establish  a  military  post  at  the    *• 
Walla  Walla,  May  22d,  1855.  131 

Governor  Stevens  to  General  Wool,  giving  a  memoir  of  proposed  military  opera 
tions  in  the  interior,  setting  forth  the  condition  of  the  Territory,  and  announc 
ing  his  determination  to  submit  to  the  Department  of  war  the  facts  connected 
with  the  disbandment  by  Gen.  Wool  of  the  troops  raised  for -his  relief,  Decem 
ber  23d,  1855,  and  January  23th,  1856.  133 

General  Wool  to  Governor  Stevens  ;  reply  to  above,  Feb.  12th,  1866.  139 

Governor  Stevens  to  General  Wool  ;  has  just  heard  of  his  arrival  in  Washington 
Territory  ;  Sends  General  Tilton,  Adjutant  General  volunteers,  to  confer  with 
him  at  Steilacoom,  March  15th,  1856.  143 

Governor  Stevens  to  General  Wool;  rejoinder  to  Better  of  February  12th,  1856, 

March  20th,  1856.  143 

Governor  Stevens  to  Gen.  Wool ;  noticing  that  the  above  letter  had  been  returned  ; 

^^•flB 
remarks  thereupon,  May  12th,  I8s^^^  150 


VII.     ORDNANCE  OFFICERS  AT  BENICIA. 

'  Governor  Mason  to  Ordnance  officer,  or  Quartermaster,  San  Francisco,  California; 
learns  from  C;ipt.  Keyes  that  Territorial  arms  were  all  left  at  Vancouver; 
asks  that  the  government  steamer  be  ordered  to  stop  there',  and  bring  a  por 
tion  to  Olympia  or  Pteilacoom,  November  26th,  1855.  151 

Governor  Mac  on  to  Col.  J.  W.  Riplcy,  U.  S.  A.;  states  that  Captain  Eckerson,  mil 
itary  storekeeper,  had  issued  arms  on  his  requisition;  that  it  was  disapproved.; 
requests  that  the  Territorial  arms  be  sent  as  soon  as  possible,  so  as  to  replace 
the  above  arms;  also,  that  Mr.  B.  be  permitted  to  issue  800  nwkets,  to  be  re 
placed  by  Territorial  arms  when  they  arrive,  December  12th,  1855.  152 

Col.  Eipley  to  Gov.  Mason  :  receipts  to  be  given  to  Lieutenant  Stone  and  Mr.  Eck- 


CONTENTS.  T 

PAGE. 

erson,  to  be  deducted  out  of  Territorial  quota;  further  issue  of  arms  deemed 
unnecessary,  in  view  of  the  arrival  of  the  9th  Infantry,  Feb.  2d,  1856.  153 

Governor  Stevens  to  Col.  Ripley,  U.  S.  A.;  requests  that  2,000  Ibs  of  rifle  powder 

be  furnished  for  the  volunteers,  May  4th,  1856.  154 

Col.  Ripley  to  Governor  Stevens  ;  not  authorized  to  comply  with  above  requisition, 

May  29th,  1856.  155 

Col.  T.  Morris  to  Governor  Stevens  ;  requisition  received  ;  impossible  to  comply, 

in  consequence  of  orders  issued  by  General  Wool,  May  19th,  185G.  155 

•VIII.     OFFICERS    OF   THE    ARMY    OX   THE    COLUMBIA 
RIVER  AND  THE  WALLA  WALLA. 

Gov.  Mason  to  Maj.  Rains,  giving  notice  of  murders  having  been  committed  by 

the  Indians  on  miners  going  to  Colville,  Sept.  22d,  1855.  156 

Gov.  Mason  to  Maj.  Kains  ;  additional  information  relative  to  murders ;  Lieut. 

Slaughter  with  forty  men  has  gone  across  the  mountains,  Sept.  2tfth,  1855,  157 

Maj.  Rains  to  Gov.  Mason  ;  has  ordered  Lieut.  Day  to  enquire  into  the  above  sub 
ject,  Sept.  26th,  1855,  158 

Maj.  Rains  to  Gov.  Mason  ;  has  ordered  84  men  into  the  field.  Sept.  29th,  1855,  159 

Maj.  Rains  to  Gov.  Mason  ;  Maj.  Haller  surrounded  ;  calls  for  tjvo  companies  of  vol 
unteers,  Oct.  9th,  1S55,  1GO 

Gov.  Mason  to  Maj.  Rains;  has  complied  with  requisition,  Oct.  14th,  1855,  160 

Gov.  Mason  to  Maj.  Rains;  Sends  Mr.  Walker  to  know  what  arms  and  ammunition 

can  be  furnished  volunteers,  Oct.  14th,  1855,  161 

Lieut.  Withers  to  Gov.  Mason;  volunteers  will  receive  arms,  &c.,  Oct.  17th,  1855,  162 

Gov.  Mason  to  Lieut.  Withers;  has  ordered  Col.  Shaw  to  raise  a  company  for  relief 

of  Gov.  Stevens,  Nov.  3d,  1855,  162 

Maj.  Rains  to  Gov.  Mason;  account  of  battle  of  the  "Two  Buttes,"  Nov.  12th,  1855,        163 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Col.  Wright ;  is  raising  volunteers  ;  proposes  joint  operations  be 
tween  regulars  and  volunteers,  April  2d,  1856,  164 

Col.  Wright  to  Gov.  Stevens;  is  taking  measures  to  protect  the  country;  Cascades 

retaken,  April  10th,  1856,  .  165 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Col.  Wright ;  asks  whether  he  intends  to  occupy  the  Walla  Walla, 

April  24th,  1856,  166 

Col.  Wright  to  Gov.  Stevens  ;  not  part  of  his  plan  to  occupy  the  Walla  Walla  at 

present,  April  27th,  1856,  167 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Col.  Wright ;  informs  him  that  the  Indians  are  determined  to  pros 
ecute  the  war  ;  information  received  from  Mr.  McDonald,  May  8th,  1856.  167 

Gov.  Ste-vens  to  Col.  Wright ;  informs  him  of  Col.  Shaw's  march  across  the  moun 
tains;  his  plans;  is  ready,  as  Superintendent  of  Indians,  to  take  charge  of  any 
Indians;  terms  to  be  offered,  June  ISth,  1856,  168 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Col  Wright ;  informs  him  of  the  battle  of  Grand  Ronde;  will  go  to 

Walla  Walla  in  person,  August  3d,  1856,  169 

Col.  Wright  to  Gov.  Stevens  ;  has  received  requisition  for  Leschi,  Nelson,  Kitsap, 

&c. ;  suggests  that  their  seizure  be  suspended  at  present,  Oct.  4th,  1856,  170 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Col.  Wright ;  reiterates  requisition  for  the  Sound  murderers,  Oct. 

4th, 1856,  171 


VI  CONTENTS. 

PAGE. 
Gov.  Stevens  to  Lieut.  Col.  Steptoe  ;  advises  him  of  council  to  be  held  at  Walla 

Waila;  a-ks  him  to  place  his  troops  in  the  vicinity  during  the  council,  August 

25th,  1856,  172 

Col.  Steptoe  to  Gov.  Stevens;  will  comply  with  request,  August  28th,  1856,  173 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Col.  Bteptoe;  announcing  loss  of  pack  train;  has  sent  a  wagon  boat 

to  Capt.  R-^scl  to  cross  the  Columbia,  August  31st,  1856,  173 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Capt.  Russell;  will  send  boat  wagon;  Nea  Perces  coming  in;  asks 

him  to  camp  near  the  council  ground,  August  31st,  1856,  174 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Capt.  Russell*  ha?  sent  boat  wagon  with  escort,  Sept.  4tb,  1856,  175 

Col.  Steptoe  to  Cuvernor  Stevens  ;  will  reach  Walla  Walla  in  one  day  more  ;  ob 
ject  to  establish  permanent  post,  September  4th,  1856.  176 

Governor  Stevens  to  Col.  Steptoe  ;  asks  for  two  companies  and  howitzer  on  the 

Council  ground,  as  the  volunteers  are  about  to  leave,  September  10, 1856.  176 

Col.  Steptoe  to  Gov.  Stevens  ;  cannot  accede  to  request,  Sept.  10th,  1856.  177 

Governor  Stevens  to  Col.  Steptoe:  requests  his  presence  at  the  Council,  and  to 

bring  a  company,  Sept.  13th,  1856.  178 

Col.   Steptoe  to  Gov.  Stevens  ;  advises  him  to  move  the  Council  up  to  his  camp, 

September  13th,  1856.  178 

Col.  Steptoe  to  Governor  Stevens;  has  receiver]  note,  asking  for  aid;    better  to 

come  back,  and  then  all  together  can  move  to  the  Umatilla,  Sept.  19th,  1856.          179 

IX.     OFFICERS  OF  THE  ARMY  ON  THE   SOUND. 

Acting-Governor  Mason  to  Captain  Malony,  relative  to  murders  of  citizens  by  tho 
Yakimas,  and  requesting  that  a  detachment  of  troops  be  sent  into  the  Yakiina 
valley,  September  24th,  1855.  180 

Same  to  same,  informing  Capt.  M.  that  he  has  called  out  two  companies  of  volun 
teers  in  complyance  with  Major  Rain's  requisition,  October,  15, 1855.  181 

Captain  Malony  to  Major  Rains:  camp  onNachess  river  ,  giving  reasons  for  falling 

back  to  Steilacoom,  Oct.  29, 1855.  181 

Lieut.  Nugen  to  Acting-Governor  Mason,  stating  that  Indians  on  White  river  had 

broken  out  and  murdered  settlers,  &c.,  Oct.  30th,  1855.  183 

Lieutenant  Xugen  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton,  stating  that  he  has  called  upon  the 

citizens  of  Pierce  county  for  one  company  of  volunteers,  Oct.  31,  1855.  1S3 

Same  to  same;  rumor  of  Klirkatats  in  this  vicinity;  opinion  that  there  is  to  be  a 

general  Indian  war,  Nov.  1, 1855.  184 

Same  to  ?ame;  attack  by  the  Indians  upon  express,  and  death  of  Col.  A.  B.  Moses 

and  others,  Nov.  2d,  1855.  185 

Same  to  same  ;  reporting  battle  on  White  river,  Nov.  4, 1855.  185 

Captain  Malony  to   Acting-Governor  Mason;  camp  Coimell ;  reporting  battle  of 

White  river,  and  pursuit  of  enemy  to  Green  river,  &c.,  Nov.  6th,  1855.  186 

Lieutenant  Nugen  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton,  reporting  battle  on  Green  river, 

November  4th  ;  list  of  killed  and  wounded,  N.ov.  9th,  1855.  188 

Acting-Governor  Mason  to  Capt.  Keys,  relative  to  furnishing  the  volunteers  with 

arms  and  supplies.  188 

£apt.  E.  D.  Keys  to  Captain  G.  Hays,  orders  to  .examine  country  on  Upper  Nes- 


CONTENTS.  VII 

PAGE, 
qnally  and  south  in  direction  of  Skooknm  Chuck   for  hostile  Indians,  Nov.  2G, 

1855.  189 
Captain   E.  D.  Keys  to    Acting-Governor  Mason,  requesting  a  list  of  sub-Indian 

agents  west  of  the  Cascades,  and  their  stations;  guard  at  Fort  Nesqiuilly, 

Dec.  4th,  1855.  190 

Same  to  same  ;  reports  the  death  of  Lieutenant  Slaughter  and  impossibility  of  fight 
ing  the  Indians  on  their  own  ground,  Dec.  7, 1855.  191 

Capt.  E.  D  .  Keys  to  Acting-Governor  Mason,  relative  to  furnishing  supplies  to  W. 

T.  volunteers,  January  4, 185;!.  192 

Acting-Governor  Mason  to  E.  D.  Keys,  TJ.  S.  A.,  in  reference  to  supplies  for  the 
volunteers,  and  the  probable  discharge  of  certain  companies,  January  5th, 

1856.  193 

Same  to  same  ;  relative  to  Leschi  and  other  Indians,  January  6, 1856.  194 

Captain  E.  D.  Keys  to  Acting-Governor  Mason,  relative  to  Leschi  being  on  the 

reserve  opposite  Steildcoom,  January  6, 1856.  194 

Same  to  same,  relative  to  supplies  for  volunteers,  declining  to  give  them  orders, 

deprecating  a  more  into  the  enemy's  country,  January  10, 1S56.  196- 

Governor  Stevens  to  Lieut.  Col.  Casey,  advising  him  of  the  movements  of  the 
volunteers  from  the  Yelm  and  Montgcmerys  ;  that  the  report  as  to  contempla 
ted  attack  of  the  Northern  Indians  woulii  make  no  cbumge  in  the  Snohomish 
expedition,  and  in  case  that  Lieutenant  Col.  Casey  was  of  opinion  that  the 
Active  should  be  kept  cruising,  requesting  him  to  write  a  letter  to  Captain 
Gansevoort  to  that  effect,  Feb.  17.  Ifc56.  196- 

Lieut.  Col.  Casey  to  Governor  Stevens,  endorsing  Governor  Steven's  views  in  re 
gard  to  tne  Active,  &c.,  Feb.  17th,  1856.  198 

Governor  Stevens  to  Lieutenant  Col.  Casey,  advising  him  of  the  establishment  of 
a  post  at  Lone  Tree  Point,  and  that  all  the  volunteers  raised  for  local  defence 
had  been  disbanded,  Feb.  18, 1856.  198 

Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  commanding  officer  at  Fort  Steilacoom  ;  information 
received  that  hostile  Indians  are  in  vicinity  of  Xathan  Eaton's;  White  mur 
dered,  and  Northcraft  missing;  Governor  deshes  you  to  send '30  men  to  Yelm, 
&c.,  March  2d,  1856.  199 

Lieutenant  J.  Nngento  Adjutant  General  Tilton;  cannot  comply  with  your  request 

to  send  30  men  to  Yelm,  March  3d,  1856.  200 

Lieut.  Col.  Casey  to  Governor  Stevens;  requisition  for  two  companies  of  volunteers, 

March  15, 1856.  200 

Governor  Stevens  to  Lieut.  Col.  Casey;  refuses  to  comply  with  the  requisition, 

March  16,  1856.  201 

Governor  Stevens  to  Lieut.  Col.  Casey  ;  proposes  to  turn  over  to  him  the  posts  on 

Council's  prairie  and  on  White  river,  April  15, 1856.  204 

Lieut.  Col.  Casey  to  Governor  Stevens,  in  substance  accepting  the  posts,  April  15, 

1856.  204 

Governor  Stevens  to  Lieut.  Col.  Casey;  reply  to  the  foregoing,  April  21, 1856.  205 

Governor  Stevens  to  Lt.  Col.  Casey,  proposing  a  joint  movement  over  the  Cascades 

into  the  Yakima  country,  May  28,  1?66.  206 

Lt.  Col.  Casey  to  Governor  Stevens;  giving  reasons  why  he  sends  his  troops  by 

way  of  the  Columbia  river,  May  28,  lR5fi.  206 


Till  CONTENTS. 

PAGE. 

Governor  Stevens  to  Lt.  Col.  Casey,  proposing  to  tarn  over  certain  of  the  volunteer 
posts,  and  expresses  the  opinion  that  no  portion  of  the  line  should  be  disgarn- 
ished  at  present,  June  2d,  1856.  207 

Lt.  Col.  Casey  to  Governor  Stevens  ;  in  regard  to  practicability  of  wagon  road 
over  the  Snoqualmie  pass,  May  28, 1856. 

Lt.  J.  Nugen  to  Lt.  Col.  Shaw  ;  Lt.  Col.  Casey  willing  to  occupy  certain  block 
houses  wifh  his  troops,  June  1, 1456. 

Governor  Stevens  to  Lt.  Col.  Casey,  communicating  the  arrangements  made  to  turn 

over  the  volunteer  posts,  June  3d,  1856.  209 

Lt.  Col.  Casey  to  Governor  Stevens;  -wishes  to  be  relieved  from  the  charge  of  the 

Indians  recently  came  in  from  the  Yakirna,  Oct.  20.  1856.  210 

Governor  Stevens  to  Lieut.  Col.  Casey,  declines  to  receive  the  Indians  until  the 

murderers  are  apprehended.  211 

Lieut.  Col.  Casey  to  Governor  Stevens,  declines  to  comply  with  the  requisition  of 

Gov.  S.  for  murderers,  October  21, 1856.  213 

Governor  Stevens  to  Lt.  Col.  Casey;  renews  his  requisition  upon  Lieut.  C.  for  the 

murderers,  Oct.  27, 1856.  214 

Lt.  Col.  Casey  to  Gov.  Stevens;  again  declines  to  comply  with  Governor  S.'s  requi 
sition;  will  forward  communication  to  General  Wool,  Oct.  29,  1856.  216 

Governor  Stevens  to  Lt.  Col.  Casey;  encloses  Col.  Wright's  instructions  to  Major 

Garnett,  and  3d  requisition  for  murderers,  Oct.  31,  1856.  216 

Lieut.  Col.  Casey  to  Governor  Stevens;  will  comply  with  requisition  from  civil  an 

thori ties,  Nov.  2,  1856.  217 

Lieut.  Casey  to  Governor  Stevens;  in  relation  to  Lieut.  McKibben's  interference 
with  friendly  Indians;  Indian  officers  should  have  an  eye  single  to  their  duties; 
a  spirit  of  justice  should  be  exercised.  218 

Governor  Stevens  to  Lieut.  Col.  Casey;  replies  to  the  foregoing,  and  still  refuses 
to  receive  the  Indians  until  the  murderers  are  apprehended;  Col.  Simmons 
gave  you  such  notice;  your  observations  about  Indian  officers,  &c.,  offensive, 
November  8, 1856.  219 

Lieut.  Col.  Casey  to  Gov.  Stevens;  answer,  Nov.  12,  1856.  220 

X.    QUARTERMASTER  AND  COMMISSARY  GENERAL. 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  Gen.  Miller,  directing  him  to  issue  certificates  for  purchases 

made  by  him,  February  2d,  1856,  221 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  Gen.  Miller,  directing  him  to  move  with  all  his  wagons,  qnar- 
master's  men  and  supplies  to  Montgomery's,  preparatory  to  moving  on  the 
Puyallup,  February  18, 1856,  222 

From  Gen.  Miller  to  Gov.  Stevens,  stating  his  compliance  with  orders  of  18th,  and 
the  arrngements  he  has  made  for  additional  supplies  and  transportation,  Yelm. 
February  18th,  1856,  222 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  Gen.  Miller  ;  has  ordered  the  formation  of  a  company  from 
teamsters  and  quartermasters'  men  ;  the  Major  elected  ordered  to  push  forward 
into  the  enemy's  country  and  establish  certain  block-houses  and  ferries,  Febru 
ary  20, 1856,  223 

r  rom  Gen.  Miller  to  Gov.  Stevens,  reporting  his  success  in  procuring  supplies  and 


CONTENTS.  IX 

PAGE. 

transportation,  &c. ;  the  train  will  be  ready  to  move  at  the  time  appointed, 

&c.,  February  20, 1856,  224 

Gen.  Miller  to  Gov.  Stevens,  reporting  his  train  in  readiness  to  move,  with  rations 

for  150  men,  100  days,  &c.,  February  22, 1856,  225 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Gen.  Miller,  directing  him  to  accompany  the  expedition  into  the 
Indian  country,  and  instructions  as  to  supplies,  forage,  transportation,  &c., 
Montgomery's,  February  23, 1656,  22G 

Gen.  Milier  to  Gov.  Stevens,  reporting  his  arrival  at  Lemon's  prairie  and  readiness 

of  train  to  move  on  nest  day,  February  28, 1856,  227 

Gen.  Miller  to  Gov.  Stevens,  reporting  his  arrival  at  ConuelFs  prairie  ;  the  good  or 
der  of  the  train  and  entire  harmony  among  employees,  and  will  be  able  to  fully 
carry  out  his  instructions,  March  2, 185C,  228 

From  Governor  Stevens  to  Gen.  Miller;  relative  to  supplies;  the  selection  of  site 
for  main  depot;  quartermaster's  men  being  raised  as  guard  for  train;  compa 
nies  ordered  from  the  Columbia,  May  1st,  1856.  229 

From  Governor  Stevens  to  Gen.  Miller;  relative  to  the  appointment  of  an  assist 
ant  quartermaster  general;  the  district  to  which  he  wiir  be  assigned,  and  the 
instructions  to  be  given  him  May  1, 1856.  230 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  Gen.  Miller;  relative  to  the  appointment  of  Col.  Hurd  assist 
ant  quartermaster,  general,  and  instructions  to  be  given  him.  May  1,  '56.  231 

From  Governor  Stevens  to  General  Miller;  orders  to  build  a  block  house  at  Ten- 

alquct,  and  open  certain  wagon  roads,  May  5th,  '56.  231 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  Gen.  Miller;  relative  to  Wagon  train  to  go  by  Snoqualrnie 
pass,  and  form  a  supply  depot  on  the  Yakima,  also  pack  train,  £c.  May  28, 
1856.  232 

From  Governor  Stevens  to  Gen.  Miller;  Fort  Hicks  will  be  turned  over  to  Lt.  Col. 
Casey;  supplies  there  &c.;  reduce  expen.-es  in  quartermaster's  department; 
muster  out  guard  at  Nesqually  ferry,  July  17, 1856.  233 

Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  Gen.  Miller;  orders  to  enlist  206  volunteers  to  strength 
en  Right  wing,  2d  regiment,  August  2d,  1856.  233 

Governor  Stevens  to  Gen.  Miller;  directing  him  to  dispense  with  quartermaster's 

and  commissary's  agents,  &c.,  who  are  not  required,  Aug.  8,  1856.  234 

XI.  EXPEDITION  TO  WALLA  WALLA — RAISING  OF  SOUTHERN  BATTALION 
— MOVEMENT  TO  THE  SOUND — JOINT  OPERATIONS  OF  SOUTHERN  AND 
CENTRAL  BATTALION,  s 

From  Governor  Stevenslo  Col.  B.  F.  Shaw;  movement  of  Southern  battalion  to 

East  of  Cascades,  Feb.  18,  1856.  234 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  Assistant  Adjutant  General  Shaw;  boats  for  transportation; 

pack  train  besides  boats;  posts  in  the  interior,  Feb.  20,  1856.  235 

From  Assistant  Adjutant  General  Shaw  to  Gov.  Stevens;  has  received  his  com 
mission  and  letter  of  instructions.  Vancouver,  Feb.  21,  1856.  23C 

From  Col.  Shaw  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton;  progress  in  raising  Southern  battal 
ion,  Salem,  Feb.  29, 1856.  237 

From  Governor  Stevens  to  Col.  Shaw:  ordering  Maxon's  company  to  the  Sound, 

March  2d,  185C.  238 

0, 


X  CONTENTS. 

PAGE. 

From  Adj.  Gen.  Tilton  to  Lt.  Col.  Crosbie;  orders  to  proceed  to  the  Columbia  riv 
er,  March  2d,  1856.  2S8 
From  Col.  Shaw  to  Gov.  Stevens;  movement  of  Southern  battalion  to  the  interior, 

Vancouver,  March  9, 1856. 
From  Gov.  Stevens  to  Col.  Shaw;  ordering  the  Southern  battalion  to  the  Sound, 

March  12,  1856.  240 

From  Governor  Stevens  to  Col.  Shaw;  instructions  in  reference  to  operations  at 

the  head  of  the  Sound,  April  16, 1856. 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  Col.  Shaw;  transmitting  additional  instructions,  April,  1856.       242 
Gov.  Stevens  to  Capt.  Goff ;  giving  information  and  orders  for  his  movement  to  the 

Walla  Walla,  May  11, 1856.  243 

From  Col.  Shaw  to  Gov.  Stevens;  suggestions  for  a  movement  across  the  Cascades, 

May  16, 1856.  244 

From  Gov.  Stevens  to  Col.  Shaw;  have  your  train  ready  to  cross  the  mo.untains.  244 

Col.  Shaw  to  Gov.  Stevens;  opinion  of  council  of  officers  as  to  crossing  Cascades, 

May  21, 1856.  245 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Col.  Shaw;  referring  to  opinions  of  the  Council  of  officers,  May 

21, 1856.  246 

Extract — Gov.  Stevens  to  Col.  Shaw;  send  an  express  over  Nachess  pass  to  Col. 

Wright,  May  20th,  1856.  246 

Extract — Gov.  Stevens  to  Col.  Shaw;  get  an  express  over  the  mountains  if  possi 
ble,  May  21, 1856.  247 
Col.  Shaw  to  Gov.  Stevens;  the  express  is  sent,  May  22d,  1856.  247 
Gov.  Stevens  to  Capt.  Goff;  is  authorised  to  increase  his  force,  but  must  not  wait 

to  do  so,  June  1, 1856.  247 

Capt.  W.  W.  DeLacy  to  Adjutant  Gen.  Tilton;  report  upon  wagon  route  by  the 

Snoqnalmie  pass,  June  5th,  1856.  248 

Gov.  Stevens  to  CoL  Shaw;  adopting  his  views  of  moving  over  Nachess  pass,  June 

5, 1868.  249    . 

Col.  Shaw  to  Adjutant  Gen.  Tilton;  movement  across  the  mountains,  June  5, 1856.      250 
Gov.  Stevens  to  Col.  Shaw;  turn  over  certain  posts  to  Lt.  Col.  Casey,  June  5, 1S56.       251 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Col.  Shaw;  instructions  as  to  operations  in  the  interior,  Dalles, 

June  18, 1856.  252 

Gov.  Stevens  to* Capt.  Goff;  instructions  for  his  march  to  the  Walla  Walla,  &c., 

Olympia,  June  3d,  1856.  252 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Capt.  Goff;  additional  instructions,  Dalles,  June  24, 1856.  254 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Lt.  Craig,  sub-agent ;  Goff  s  and  Shaw's  movements;  Indian  sup 
plies  for  interior,  Dalles,  June  24, 1856.  254 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Col.  Shaw;  instructions,  Dalles,  June  30,  1856.  255 

Lieut.  Col.  Shaw  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton;   march  of  the  battalion  from  Camp 

Montgomery,  Camp  on  Wenass,  June  22d,  1856.  257 

Col.  Shaw  to  Adjutant  Gen.  Tilton;  march  from  camp  on  Wenass  to  the  Columbia, 

Camp  opposite  Fort  Walla  Walla,  July  1, 1858.  258 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Col.  Shaw;  the  movements  made,  and  those  proposed,  are  appro 
ved,  July  21, 1856.  260 

Col.  Shaw  to  Gov.  Stevens;  reports  his  arrival  in  the  Walla  Walla;  disposition  of 

Nez  Perces,  July  26, 1856.  261 


CONTENTS.  XI 

PAGE. 
Captain  Goff  to  Col.  Shaw;  report  of  the  battle  of  Burnt  river,  Camp  Mill  Creek, 

July  26, 1856.  263 

Governor  Stevens  to  Col.  Shaw;  200  volunteers  to  re-inforce  him;  council  at  Walla 

Walla,  August  2,  1856.  265 

Col.  Shaw  to  Col.  Craig  ;  battle  of  Grand  Konde;  statement  of  facts;  council  with 

the  hostiles;  sends  express,  Head  Quarters,  Mill  Creek,  Aug.  1, 1856.  266 

Col.  Shaw  to  Lawyer,  or  head  chief  of  the  Nez  Perce  nation,  Head  Quarters,  Mill 

Creek,  Aug.  1, 1856.  268 

Col.  Shaw  to  Gov.  Stevens;  the  Walla  Walla  Council;  arrangements  will  be   made 

for  it,  Fort  Mason,  Aug.  14, 1856.  268 

Col.  Shaw  to  Col.  Craig;  the  Governor  has  fixed  the  25th  August,  for  opening  the 
Council  at  Walla  Walla;  sends  runners  to  the  several  tribes,  Fort  Mason  Aug. 
14, 1856.  269 

Col.  Shaw  to  the  chiefs  and  head  men  of  the  Nez  Perces,  Spokanes  and  other 
friendly  tribes;  by  direction  of  the  Governor  they  are  inviied  to  the  council, 
&c.,  Fort  Mason,  Aug.  1-1, 1856.  270 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Cel.  Craig,  Indian  agent;  the  Walla  Walla  council;  terms  with 
the  hostiles,  &c.,  Ed.  Qrs.,  W.  T.  V.,  Fort  Mason,  Walla  Walla,  August  23d, 
1856.  271 

Col.  Shaw  to  Col.  Craig;  the  Council;  division  among  the  hostiles  on  that  subject, 

Fort  Mason,  Aug.  23d,  1856.  272 

XII.     OPERATIONS  AT  THE  HEAD  OF  THE    SOUND — THREE   MONTHS'  OR 
GANIZATION — CENTRAL  AND    SOUTHERN  BATTALIONS. 

Governor  Mason  to  Captain  Eaton;  authorized  to  raise  a  company,  and  instruc 
tions,  Olympia,  October  19, 1855.  273 

Gov.  Mason  to  Capt.  G.  Hays  ;  ordered  to  report  to  the  commanding  officer  at  Fort 

Steilacoom,  Olympia,  Oct.  20,  1855.  274 

Gov.  Mason  to  Capt.  Eaton;  instructions  as  to  scouts,  Olympia,  Oct.  23, 1855.  274 

Captain  Wallace  to  Adjutant  Gen.  Tilton;  reports  his  company  fpr  service,  Steila 
coom,  Oct.  30, 1855.  276 

Captain  Hays  to  Gov.  Mason;  report  of  the  battle  of  White  river,  ConnelFs  Prairie, 

Nov,  3d,  1855.  '276 

Gov.  Mason  to  Captain  Hays;  acknowledgment  of  services,  Olympia,  November 

9,  1855.  J77 

Adjt.  Gen.  Tilton  to  Capt.  Eaton;  ordered  to  report  to  Captain  Malony,  Olympia, 

Nov.  9,  1855.  277 

Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  Captain  Wallace;   ordered  to  report  to  Capt.  Maloney, 

Olympia,  Nov.  9, 1855.  278 

Capt.  Hays  to  Gov.  Mason;  skirmish  on  Green  river,  Camp  Montgomery,  Nov.  11, 

1855.  278 

Lieut.  Moore  to  Adjt.  Gen.  Tilton;  not  heard  from  Lieut.  Slaughter,  Camp  Morri 
son,  Dec.  10, 1855.  279 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Capt.  Swindal;  Skookum  Bay  company  accepted,  Olympia,  Feb. 

2d,  1856.  280 

Governor  Stevens  to  Capt.  Henness;  instructions  as  to  scouts,  Olympia,  Feb.  2d, 

1856.  280 


XII  CONTENTS. 

PAGE. 
Adjt.  General  Tilton  to  Captain  G.  Hays;  block  house  on  Yelm  Prairie,  Olympia, 

Feb.  11,  185G.  281 

Captain  Swindal  to  Governor  Stevens;  block  house  at  Skookum  Bay,  Fort  Skoo- 

kum,  Feb.  U.  1856.  281 

Captain  Swindal  to  Governor  Stevens;  hae  joined  Major  Hay's  command,  Maj. 

Camp,  Feb.  24th,  1356.  282 

Governor  Stevens  to  Captain  Riley;  fort  at  Lone  Tree  Point,  Olympia,  Feb.  18, 

1856.  282 

Governor  Stevens  to  Captain  J.  White;  block  houses,  Olyrnpia,  Feb.  18, 1856.  -  u  283 

Captain  Riley  to  Governor  Stevens;  post  at  Lone  Tree  Point,  Steilacoom,  Feb.  19, 

185G.  283 

Governor  Stevens  to  Major  Hays;  movement  on  the  Puyallup,  Olympia,  Feb.  20, 

1856.  284 

Governor  Steven  10  Major  Hays;  general  instructions,  Camp  Montgomery,  Feb.  27, 

1856.  285 

Major  Hays  to  Governor  Stevens;  recommends  Conneli's  Prairie  for  main  depot, 

Camp  Connell,  March  2, 1856.  287 

Adjutant  Gen,  Tilton  to  Major  Hays;  recommendation  approved,  Olympia,  March 

3, 1856.  288 

Major  Hays  to  Adj.  General  Tilton;  block  house  on  Conneli's  prairie,  Camp  Con 
nell  March  0,  185G.  289 

Major  Hays  to  Governor  Stevens;  battle  of  Conneli's  prairie,  Camp  Connell,  March 

10, 1856.  290 

Adj.  General  Tilton  to  Captain  Maxon;  scouts,  Olympia,  March  12, 1856.  292 

Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  Major  Hays;  thanks  for  battle  of  Conaeli's  prairie, 

Olympia,  March  13, 1856.  294 

Major  Hays  to  Governor  Stevens;  scouts  of  the  Central  battalion,  Fort  Hays,  Con 
neli's  prairie,  March  15, 1856.  295 
Governor  Stevens  to  Major  Hays;  Nachess  pass,  Olympia,  March  17, 1856.                    297 
Governor  Stevens  to  Captain  Maxnn;  scout  in  the  Nesqually  bottom,  Olympia, 

March  18, 1856.  297 

Maj.  Hays  to  Gov.  Stevens;  Scouts,  Fort  Hays,  March  24, 1856.  298 

Captain  Maxon  to  Adjutant  Gen.  Tilton;  his  scout  in  the  Nesqually  bottom,  Tenal- 

quot  prairie,  March  24,  1856.  299 

Adjt.  General  Tilton  to  Capotin  Maxon;  scouts  up  the  Nesqually,  Olympia,  March 

26,  18CG.  300 

Captain  Maxon  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton;  sends  in  five  of  the  suspected  persons, 

Camp  McLeod,  March  30, 1856.  301 

Adjutant  General  to  Major  Hays;  road  from  Fort  Hays  to  South  prairie,  Olympia, 

April  4, 1856.  302 

Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  Major  Hays;  occupation  of  South  prairie,  Olympia, 

April  6,  1856.  .302 

Captain  Miller  to  Governor  Stevens;  scout  up  the  Nesqually,  Fort  Stevens,  Yelm 

Prairie,  April  G,  1856.  303 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Major  Hays;  resignation  accepted,  Olympia,  April  10, 1856.  304 

Vdj.  General  Tilton  to  Captain  Swindal?  occupation  of  South  Prairie,  Olympia, 

April  12,  185G.  305 


CONTENTS.  XIII 

PAGE. 
Gov.  Stevens  to  Capt.  Swindal;  connection  with  the  line  of  the  Nesqaally,  Olym- 

pia,  April  15,  1856,  305 

Captain  Swindal  to  Governor  Stevens;  block  house  bnilt  on  Sonth  Prairie,  Camp 

Montgomery,  April  20, 1856.  306 

Captain  Maxon  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton;  scouts  to  Michell  prairie  and  lake  Ow- 

hap,  Camp  Wren,  April  23,1856.  306 

Captain  Eabbeson  to  Gov.  Stevens;  Indian  encampment,  Fort  McAlister,  South 

Prairie,  April  29, 1856.  308 

Captai  Swindal  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton;  report  of  scout,  Fort  McAlister,  May 

2d,1856.  309 

Adj.  General  Tilton  to  Captain  DeLacy;  examination  of  route  to  the  Snoqualmie 

Pass,  Olympia,  May  27, 1856.  309 

Governor  Stevens  to  Captain  Swindal;  posts  to  be  turned  over  to  Lieut.  Col.  Casey, 

Olympia,  July  17, 1856.  310 

,     XIII.     NORTHERN  BATTALION  AND  DOWN  THE  SOUND. 

* 
Captain  1.  N.  Ebey  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton;  report  of  operations,  November 

5. 1855.  311 
do            do                       do                   do             do               do        Nov.  9, 1855.        312 

Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  Capt.  I.  N.  Ebey;  instructions,  Nov.  10, 1855.  314 
Captain  I.  N.  Ebey  to  Adj.  Gen.  Tilton;  condition  of  affairs,  Nov.  12,  1855.  315 
do                              do                          do                        Nov.  28, 1855.  315 
Adj.  Gen.  Tilton  to  Capt.  I.  N.  Ebey;  instructions,  Dec.  4, 1855.  317 
do                         do           Occupation  of  Crescent  Harbor,  Dec.  5, 1855.  317 
Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  Captain  A.  A.  Plummer;  instructions,  Dec.  11, 1855.  318 
Gov.  Stevens  to  Capt.  I.  N.  Ebey;  relative  to  volunteers  for  six  months  and  gen 
eral  defence,  Feb.  1, 1856.  319 
do                         do              do                   raising  volunteers,  Feb.  2, 1856.  319 
Gov.  Stevens  to  Major  commanding  Northern  battalion;  general  instructions,  Feb. 

2. 1856.  •  320 
Plan  of  defence  of  the  lower  part  of  the  Sound.  320 
Defence  of  Bellingham  Bay.  321 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Captain  I.  N.  Ebey;  establishment  of  posts  above  the  falls  of  the 

Snoqnalmie,  Feb.  14, 1856.  322 

Major  Van  Bokkelen  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton;  movements  of  Northern  battal 
ion  and  Indian  auxiliaries,  Fort  Tilton,  March  10, 1856.  322 

Captain  S.  D.  Howe  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton;  movements  of  his  company,  Fort 

Ebey,  March  10, 1S56.  324 

Major  Van  Bokkelin  to  Gov.  Stevens;  future  movements  of  northern  battalion, 

Fort  Hays,  April  2, 1856.  326 

Description  of  route  taken  by  the  Northern  battalion  from  Fort  Tilton  to  Fort 

Hays.  327 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Major  Van  Bokkelin;  reply  to  the  Majors  letter  announcing  his  ar 
rival  at  Fort  Hays,  Olympia  March  26, 1856,  328 

Maj.  Van  Bokkelin  to  Gov.  Stevens;  scout  by  the  northern  and  central  battalions, 

Fort  Hays,  April  1 , 1856 ,  329 


CONTENTS. 

PAGE. 

Ca.pt.  Peabody  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton;  report  of  scout  up  the  the  Snoqualmie 
into  the  lakes,  Fort  Tilton,  April  27, 1856, 

Capt.  Howe  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton  ;  return  from  a  scout ;  resignation,  Fort 
Tilton,  April  27, 1856, 

Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  Major  Van  Bokkelin  ;  return  of  northern  battalion  to 
Fort  Tilton,  Olynipia,  April  27, 1856, 

Major  Yan  Bokkelin  to  Adjutant  Tilton;  return  route  to  the  Snoqualmie;  practica 
bility  of  the  pass,  Rangers'  Prairie,  May  23, 1856.  335 

Maj.  Van  Bokkelin  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton,  Fort  Tilton  May  24,  1856,  336 

Maj.  Van  Bokkelin  to  Gov.  Stevens  ;  crossing  the  Snoqualmie,  Bangers'  Prairie, 

May  23, 1856,  336 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Lieut.  Col.  E.  C.  Fitzhugh  ;  messengers  to  Ouhi  and  Te-i-ass,  Olym- 
pia,  June  4, 1856, 

Lieut.  Col.  E.  C.  Fitzhugh  to  Gov.  Stevens  ;  failure  to  bring  in  Ouhi,  Te-i-ass  and 

their  people,  Holmes'  Harbor,  June  20, 1856,  339 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Major  Van  Bokkelin  ;  train  across  the  Snoqualmie,  Olympia,  May 

28, 1856,  340 

Maj.  Van  Bokkelin  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton;  occupation  of  the  Snoqualmie,  Sno 
qualmie  Pass,  June  24, 1856,  341 

Maj.  Van  Bokkelin  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton ;  scout  in  the  Yakima  valley,  Fort 

Alder,  June  28, 1856,  343 


XIV.    DEFENCES  OF,  AND  OPERATIONS  IN  THE  VICIN 
ITY  OF  SEATTLE. 

Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  Capt.  Hewitt ;  instructions,  Olympia,  Nov.  9, 1855,  344 

Capt.  Hewitt  to  Gov.  Mason;  condition  of  his  company,  &c.,  Seattle,  Nov.  12, 1855,        345 

Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  Capt.  Hewitt ;  assist  the  Indian  agent,  Olympia,  Nov. 

24, 1855,  346 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Lieut.  Col.  Lander  ;  Enlistments  for  six  months  ;  general  defence, 

Olympia ,  Feb.  1 , 1856 ,  346 

Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  Lieut.  Col.  Lander  ;  employment  of  Indian  auxiliaries 

on  the  line  of  the  Duwamish,  Olympia,  April  13, 1856,  347 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Lieut.  Col.  Lander  ;  instructions,  Olympia,  Feb.  17, 1856,  348 

Lieut.  Col.  Lander  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton;  report  of  operations,  Seattle,  March 

3d,  1856,  348 

Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  Lieut.  Col.  Crosbie,  and  notes  by  Gov.  Stevens  ;  Com 
bined  naval  and  military  movement  from  Seattle  to  Lake  Duwamish,  Olympia, 
March  14, 1856,  350 

Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  Lieut.  Col.  Lander ;  getting  in  of  Indians  back  of  Seat 
tle,  Olympia,  April  13, 1856,  351 

Lieut.  Col.  Lander  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton ;  operations  on  the  line  of  the  Du 
wamish  ;  hostile  Indians  brought  in,  Fort  on  Duwamisb,  April  24, 1856.  352 

Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  Lieut.  Col.  Lander  ;  co-operation  with  Capt.  Dent,  Olym 
pia,  April  15,  1856.  356 


CONTENTS.  XV 

PAGE. 

Lieut.  Col.  Lander  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton  ;  scouts  of  Lieut.  Denny,  and.  Ser 
jeant  Henning,  Fort  on  Duwamish,  April  28, 1856,  356 

Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  Lieut.  Col.  Lander ;  acknowledgment  of  services,  Olym- 

pia,  May  4, 1856,  359 

Adj.  Gen.  Tilton  to  Lieut.  Denny;  cutting  road  from  Fort  Hays  to  the  Falls  of  the 

Snoqualmie,  Olympia,  June  9, 1856.  359 

Lieut.  Penny  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton;  difficulties  in  the  way  of  executing  the 

above  instructions,  Fort  Lander,  June  13, 1856.  360 

Adj.  General  Tilton  to  Lieut.  Denny;  instructions  modffied,  Olympia,  June  15, 

1856.  361 

Lieut.  Denny  to  Adj.  General  Tilton;  objects  to  the  instructions,  Fort  Lander, 

June  19, 1856.  362 

Adj.  General  Tilton  to  Lieut.  Denny;  relieved  from  duty,  and  ordered  to  turn  the 

company  over  to  Lieut.  Neely,  Olympia,  June  24, 1856.  364 

Adj.  General  Tilton  to  Lieut.  Neely;  ordered  to  relieve  Lieutenant  Denny  from  the 

command  of  Company  A,  and  to  cut  the  trail,  Olympia,  June  24, 1856.  364 

Letter  and  resolutions  of  Company  A,  disapproving  of  the  course  of  the  Corn- 
man  der-in-Chief,  Fort  Lander,  June  28, 1856.  365 

Adj.  General  Tilton  to  Lieut.  Col.  Fitzhngh;  instructions  in  regard  to  mustering 

out  Company  A,  Olympia,  July  27,  1856.  367 

Lt.  Col.  Fitzhugh  to  Governor  Stevens;  Company  A  has  not  agreed  to  the  condi 
tions  necessary  to  its  being  mustered  out,  Seattle,  June  29, 1856.  368 

do  do  do  endorsement  by  Lieutenant  Neely  of 

letter  of  June  28,  signed  Company  A,  Bellingham  Bay,  Oct.  8, 1856.  370 

Lieut,  Col.  Fitzhugh  to  Lieut.  Neely;  hopes  the  resolutions  will  be  modified,  and 

the  company  mustered  out,  Bellingham  Bay,  Sept.  22d,  1856.  370 

Lieut.  Neely  to  Col.  Fitzhugh;  endorsement  of  letter  signed  Company  A,  Fort 

Lander,  Oct.  1, 1856.  371 


XV.     DEFENCES    AND    OPERATIONS    IN    LEWIS 

COUNTY. 

Capt.  John  R.  Jackson  to  Acting-Governor  Mason;  have  scouting  parties  out  con- 
constantly.  &c.,  send  you  muster  roll  of  my  company,  Lewis  county  Rangers, 
Nov.  13,  1S55.  372 

Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  Lieut.  Col.  Crosbie;  orders  to  proceed  to  Lewis  county 
to  organize  volunteers;  prevent  friendly  Indians  from  obtaining  liquor,  April 
3d,  1856.  373 

Lieut.  Col.  Crosbie  to  Adjutant  Gen.  Tilton;  stating  that  a  company  has  been  or 
ganized,  April  5, 1856.  373 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Lieut.  Col.  Crosbie;  supplies  for  Lewis  county  company  will  be 

furnished  by  Capt.  Kurd,  quartermaster  and  commissary,  April  5, 1856.  375 

Lieut.  Col.  Crosbie  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton;  block  house  at  the  Landing;  forces 
on  the  Cowlitz;  Cowlitz  Indians;  Indians  not  permitted  to  go  to  Kanier  by 
the  Citizens,  April  8, 1856.  376 


XVI  CONTENTS. 

PAGE. 
Capt.  E.  D.  Warbass  to  Governor  Stevens;  scouting  party  to  Klickatat  prairie,  and 

road  from  Pain  Court;  June  2, 1856.  376 

Governor  Stevens  to  Lieutenant  S.  S.  Ford,  Sr.;  orders  to  divide  Captain  Warbass' 
company  into  active  and  reserved  list;  start  Pierre  Charles  on  a  scout;  return 
guns  to  Plomondeau;  defences  at  Jacksous,  May  21, 1856.  377 

• 
Lieut.  Col.  S.  S.  Ford,  sr.,to  Gov.  Stevens;  executed  orders  of  May  21,  1850,  May 

26, 1856.  378 

Capt.  E.  D.  Warbass  to  Adj.  Gen.  Tilton;  block  house  on  Klickatat  prairie;  ready 

for  any  emergency,  June  30, 1856.  379 

Pierchal  to  Gov.  Stevens;  report  of  scout  up  the  Cowlitz  with  friendly  Indians, 

July  11, 1856.  38° 

XVI.     OPERATIONS    ON    THE    COLUMBIA    RIVER,   AND 
DEFENCES  IN  CLARKE   COUNTY. 

Acting-Governor  Mason  to  commanding  officer  Clarke  county  volunteers;  you  will 

report  to  the  commanding  officer  at  Fort  Vancouver,  Oct.  14, 1855.  380 

Capt.  Win.  Kelly  to  Acting-Governor  Mason;  company  organized  for  home  protec 
tion;  armed  and  equipped  from  Military  store,  &c.,  Oct.  15, 1855. 

Acting-Governor  Mason  to  Capt,  Wm.  Kelly;  accept  your  company,  to  be  called 

out  in  case  of  emergency,  &c.,  Oct.  20, 1856. 
Adj.  Gen.  Tilton  to  Capt.  McCorkle,  Co.  G;  send  commissions,  instructions,  &c., 

Nov.  10,  185«.  382 

Capt.  McCorkle  to  Acting-Governor  Mason;  report  of  Scouts,  Nov.  19, 1856.  383 

Adj.  Tilton  to  Captain  McCorkle;  must  obtain  arms  of  Gen.  Gibbs.  and  provisions 

where  you  can  obtain  credit  on  gov't,  &c.,  Nov.  26, 1855.  384 

Adj.  Gen.  Tilton  to  Capt.  William  Bratton:  send  your  commission;  relative  to  duties 

of  company,  &c.,  Dec.  1, 1855.  385 

Captain  Strong  to  Major  Rains;  object  to  my  company  being  mustered  out  before 

expiration  of  three  months,  Nov.  10, 1855.  385 

Major  Bains  to  Capt.  Strong;  directed  to  muster  your  company  out  of  service  with 
out  any  qualification,  Dec.  12, 1856.  386 

Captain  Strong  to  Acting-Governor  Mason;  my  company  to  be  mustered  out  of 

U.  S.  service,  probably;  await  yoar  orders,  Dec.  14, 1855.  387 

Capt,  Strong  to  Acting  Gov.  Mason  ;  orders  to  muster  my  company  out  of  service 

of  the  United  States  countermanded,  Dec.  16, 1855,  387 

Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  Capt.  Strong  ;  retain  your  organization  until  27th  ; 

grant  furloughs  to  men,  &c.,  Jan.  4,  1856,  388 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Lt.  Huger  ;  citizens  of  Clarke  county  should  adopt  building  block 
houses,  March  30,  1856,  389 

Lt.  Col.  Crosbie  to  Capt.  M.  R.  Hathaway,  in  regard  £o  mustering  Clarke  county 

company  into  service,  April  2, 1856,  389 

Lieut.  Huger  to  Gov.  Stevens;  recommends  that  Capt.  Kelly's  company  should  not 

be  mustered  into  service  for  home  protection,  April  3, 1856,  390 

Lieut.  Huger  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton  ;  same  tenor  as  letter  to  Gov.  Stevens, 

April  3, 1856.  391 


f         CONTENTS.  XVII 

PAGE. 
Adjutant  General  Tiltcm  to  Lieut.  Huger  ;  Capt.  Kelly's  company  will  be  accepted 

on  certain  conditions,  &c..  April  5, 1  391 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Capt.  M.  R.  Hathaway  ;  Capt.  Kelly's  company  to  be  subject  to 

the  orders  of  the  Executive.  &c.,  April  G,  1  'Ml 

Lieut.   Huger  to  Capt.  William  Kelly;  accept  your  company,  &c.,   April  6th. 
•      1856,  3yu 

Lieut  Huger  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton  ;  block-houses  on  Washoogal  and  Lewis 

rivers;  proffered  to  co-operate  with  regulars,  &c.,  April  14, 1856,  394 

Gov.  Stevens  Lieut.  Huger,  (duplicate  of  letter  No.  323,)  394 

Lieut.  Huger  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton,  (duplicate  of  letter  No.  235,)  :'.94 

Lieut.  J.  D.  Biles  to  Capt.  Kelly,  in  relation  to  Fort  Biggs,  April  10, 1850,  39G 

Capt.  Wm.  Kelly  to  Sergeant  Richard  Covington  ;  orders  No.  5;  erection  of  block 
house;  scouts,  &c.,  April  10,  1856,  397 

Capt.  Wm.  Kelly  to  Lieut.  J.  D.  Biles,  in  regard  to  building  block-house  on  Lewis 

river,  April  14,  1856,  398 

('apt.  Kelly  to  Lieut.  Huger  ;  report  of  condition  of  company  ;  operations,  £c., 

April  14, 1856,  39fi 

Lieut.  J.  D.  Biles  to  Capt.  Kelly  ;  Lewis  river  ;  have  selected  spot  for  block-house , 

April,  1856,  399 

Orders  No.  6  ;  Capt.  Kelly,  Clarke  county  rangers,  400 

Capt.  Kelly  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton  :  report  of  operations,  April  30,  1856,  400 

Adjutant  General  Tilton  to  Capt.  Kelly  ;  a  requisition  has  been  made  for  Howitz 
ers,  guns,  &c.,  for  your  forts,  &c. ;  raise  your  command  to  80  men  :  confer 
with  Col.  Hurd  relative  to  supplies,  &c..  May  17, 1856,  402 

Lieut,  J.  D.  Biles  to  Adjutant  General  Tilton  ;  Capt.  Kelly  on  a  scout ;  unable  to 
increase  company  to  80  men,  but  three  or  four  willing  to  march  out  of  Clarke 

county,  May  19,  185C,  402 

i 
Gov.  Stevens  to  Capt.  Kelly  ;  keep  record  of  men  on  duty  and  those  not  on  duty. 

&c.,  May  22, 1856,  403 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Capt.  Kelly,  in  relation  to  the  vi  nrd  of  men  on  duty  and  those  not 

on  duty,  &c.,  May  29, 1856,  40:; 

Gov.  Stevens  to  Capt.  Wm.  Kelly,  in  regard  to  twenty  men  for  duty,  &c.,  July  7th. 

1856,  404 

Capt.  Wm.  Kelly  to  Gov.  Stevens  :  recommend  company  be  disbanded,  and  that 
myself  and  a  non-commissioned  officer  be  retained  to  collect  property,  &<\,  Ju 
ly  9, 18.56,  405 

-'evens  to  Capt.  Kelly  ;  your  recommendations  approved,  July  14,  1856.  405 


GOVERNOR'S  MESSAGE. 


Fellow  citizens  of  the  Legislative  Assembly, 

of  the  Territory  of  Washington  : 

I  congratulate  you  ou  the  comparatively  happy  auspices  under  which 
we  now  meet.  The  last  Legislative  Assembly  had  its  session  in  a  period 
of  gloom  and  despondency,  when  our  people  had  been  compelled  to  con 
gregate  in  block-houses  for  protection — when  both  east  and  west  of  the 
Cascade  mountains  a  wily  and  treacherous  foe  were  dealing  fire  and  death 
upon  our  homes  and  people — when  the  fealty  of  a  large  number  of  the  so- 
called  friendly  tribes  was  uncertain. 

A  vigorous  and  united  effort  was  made  ;  more  than  one-half  of  the 
able  bodied  men  took  up  arms  ;  the  citizens  with  unexampled  patriotism 
turned  out  their  animals,  their  provisions  and  their  shipping.  A  vigorous 
campaign  was  waged  in  the  enemy's  country  ;  decisive  blows  were  struck, 
the  allegiance  of  the  friendly  Indians  not  only  strengthened,  but  their  ef 
fective  aid  secured  us  auxiliaries,  and  in  a  few  mouths  the  hostiles  on  the 
Sound  were  reduced  to  unconditional  submission,  or  driven  across  the  Cas 
cades. 

We  meet  to-day  under  comparatively  the  auspices  of  peace  and  re 
turning  prosperity.  The  Sound  is  whitening  with  the  sails  of  commerce, 
the  fields  are  preparing  to  make  returns  to  the  labor  of  the  husbandman, 
and  through  most  portions  of  the  settlements  our  citizens  can  travel  with 
safety. 

Not  that  now  there  is  no  danger — not  that  now  a  lasting  peace  has 
been  secured  with  the  Indian  tribes  of  the  Territory — not  that  now  all  our 
citizens  can  return  to  homes  which  have  been  made  to  smile  through  hon 
est  years  of  labor — not  that  now  our  people  can  seek  new  homes  under  the 


solemn  safe-guards  of  the  government  and  the  plighted  faith  of  the  Indians 
not  that  now  there  is  not  vigorous  action  and  an  intelligent  forecast  re 
quired  to  put  our  Territory  on  the  vantage  ground  due  to  its  geographical 
position,  and  individually,  to  its  people  for  their  generous  sacrifices  in  the 
cause  of  humanity  and  their  country — not  that  now  a  want  of  appreciation 
does  not  exist,  both  of  the  rights  of  our  citizens  under  existing  laws,  and  of 
the  true  policy  which  should  characterize  the  military  operations  of  those 
sent  here  for  our  protection.  Our  people  have  not  had  the  sympathy  and 
the  protection  to  which  they  were  entitled,  and  the  facts  will  be  briefly  set 
forth  in  this  address. 

Let  us  have  confidence  in  the  justice  and  discrimination  of  the  Gov 
ernment,  which  will,  I  firmly  believe,  correct  all  these  evils.  Let  us  see  to 
it,  that  we  use  every  exertion  to  ameliorate  them. 

The  message  of  acting  Gov.  Mason  to  the  last  Legislative  Assembly, 
set  forth  the  causes  of  the  war,  and  the  operations  in  prosecution  of  it 
which  had  been  undertaken  previous  to  its  assembling,  and  the  address 
which  1  delivered  on  my  arrival  from  the  Indian  country,  announced  the 
policy  which  ought,  in  my  judgment,  to  characterize  all  the  operations  of 
the  Government  with  the  hostile  Indians,  and  the  necessity  which  the 
Territory  was  under  of  permitting  its  volunteers  no  longer  to  be  mustered 
into  the  regular  service  in  consequence  of  a  breach  of  faith. 

The  war  had  its  origin  in  the  Indians  treacherously  killing  some  of  our 
best  citizens,  both  east  and  west  of  the  Cascade  mountains,  not  sparing 
women  and  children,  in  the  teeth  of  the  faith  of  solemn  treaties.  It  was 
not  caused  as  has  been  falsely  asserted  by  bad  conduct  on  the  part  of  the 
citizens,  who  have  been  habitually  kind  to  the  Indians. 

The  troops  were  at  first  mustered  into  the  regular  service,  but  when 
they  were  mustered  out  in  utter  disregard  of  an  agreement  to  muster  them 
in  and  send  them  on  a  specific  service,  the  time  had  come  for  the  territory 
to  muster  them  into  the  service  on  its  own  responsibility. 

The  Indians  to  be  conquered  and  peace  to  be  permanently  established, 
the  one  should  feel  the  power  of  the  Government,  and  the  other  should  be 
on  the  basis  of  absolute  submission  to  its  justice  and  mercy. 

These  views  met  with  the  approbation  of  your  predecessors,  and  I  am 
indebted  to  them  for  their  confidence  in  leaving  to  my  discretion  the  or 
ganizing  of  the  territorial  forces,  and  applying  them  to  reducing  the  enemy 
to  submission.  I  have  endeavored  to  do  my  duty  in  a  way  that  should  be 
creditable  to  the  territory,  should  sustain  the  prestige  of  American  valor, 
and  keep  in  the  ascendant  the  American  flag. 

It  was  during  the  session  of  the  last  Legislative  Assembly  that  I 
issued  my  proclamation  calling  out  volunteers  for  six  months. 

This  force  was  organized  into  three  battallious,  which  were  designated 


AS  the  Northern,  Central,  and  Southern  battalions,  each  of  which  elected 
its  Major,  and  the  two  latter  were  organized  into  a  single  command  by  the 
election  of  a  Lieutenant  Colonel. 

The  Northern  battalliou  under  the  command  of  Major  Van  Bokelen 
consisted  of  Co's  G-,  Capt.  Smalley  ;  H,  Capt.  Peabody ;  I,  Capt.  Howe. 
The  Central  battallion  under  Major  Gilmore  Hays  of  Go's  B,  Capt.  Rab- 
beson  ;  C,  Capt.  Henness  ;  E,  Capt.  Riley  ;  F,  Capt.  Swindal — the  Pio 
neer  company,  Capt.  "White,  and  the  train  guard  Capt.  Shead.  Southern 
battallion,  Major  Maxon  of  the  Washington  Mounted  Rifles,  Major  Max- 
on,  Captain  ;  D,  Capt.  Achilles  ;  E,  Capt.  Miller,  and  K,  Capt.  Goff. 

A  Quartermaster  and  Commissary's  department  was  organized 
throughout  the  territory,  by  the  appointment  of  a  Quartermaster  and  Com 
missary  General,  an  Assistant  Quartermaster  and  Commissary  General,  and 
seven  Quartermasters  and  Commissaries,  besides  one  Regimental  Quarter 
master  and  Commissary  on  duty  with  the  troops  in  the  field. 

Care  was  taken  to  supply  the  troops  with  the  proper  force  of  medical 
officers,  expresses  were  organized  throughout  the  territory,  and  every  ex 
ertion  made  to  collect  supplies  and  transportation. 

The  plan  was  to  guard  the  line  of  the  Snohomish  by  the  whole  avail 
able  force  of  the  Northern  battallion,  to  move  with  the  Central  battallion 
at  once  into  the  heart  of  the  enemy's  country  with  one  hundred  day's  sup 
plies,  to  operate  with  the  Southern  battallion  east  of  the  Cascades,  and  to 
combine  all  the  operations  by  a  movement  from  the  Sound  to  the  interior, 
or  from  the  interior  to  the  Sound,  according  to  circumstances. 

It  was  also  determined  in  all  the  military  operations  to  occupy  the 
country  permanently  by  roads  and  block-houses,  and  one  of  the  companies 
was  enlisted  expressly  for  such  service,  and  was  named  the  Pioneer  com 
pany. 

The  citizens  moreover  were  urged  not  to  leave  the  borders  of  the  set 
tlements,  but  wherever  there  were  three  or  more  families,  to  build  a  block 
house  and  hold  a  firm  front  to  the  enemy. 

My  proclamation  was  dated  the  22nd  day  of  January.  On  the  19th 
February  the  Central  battalion  moved  from  the  Yelm  prairie,  the  20th, 
21st  22d  and  23d,  it  established  the  post  at  Camp  Montgomery,  the  25th, 
26th,  27th,  28th  and  29th,  the  post  and  ferry  at  the  emigrant  crossing  of 
the  Puyallup,  and  on  the  10th  of  March  fought  the  decisive  battle  of  Con- 
neFs  prairie,  where  previously  a  post  had  been  established,  the  only  general 
engagement  with  the  Indians  of  the  Sound  since  November,  1855,  which 
resulted  in  a  loss  of  thirty  killed  and  mortally  wounded  to  the  enemy. — 
The  Indians  then  scattered  into  small  parties,  with  the  evident  design  of 
burning  and  laying  waste  the  settlements.  The  report  of  Major  Hays 
which  will  be  found  in  the  accompanying  papers  will  best  show  how  well 


4 

each  company  of  his  command  did  its  part.  It  will  be  invidious  to  partic 
ularize,  except  that  it  will  be  proper  to  state  that  the  alacrity  with  which 
Capt.  Henness'  company,  ordered  for  ranging  duty,  left  behind  their  horses 
and  went  forward  on  foot,  is  deserving  of  special  mention.  They  took  an 
active  part  with  company  B,  Capt.  Rabbeson,  the  Pioneers  under  Capt. 
White,  the  scouts  under  Capt.  Swindal,  in  this  decisive  engagement. 

In  the  meantime,  the  northern  battalion  was  being  organized  and  sent 
up  the  line  of  the  Sno-ho-mish ;  Port  Townsend  was  the  general  depot  of 
supplies,  and  the  friendly  Indians  of  the  Holmes'  Harbor  reservations 
performed  the  canoe  transportation  for  the  rivers.  Fort  Tilton,  near  the 
falls  of  the  Sno-qual-mie,  was  occupied  the  latter  days  of  February 
and  early  in  March.  The  route  thence  to  Banger's  Prairie,  above  the  falls 
of  the  Sno-qual-mie  examined,  and,  on  the  13th  March,  Major  Van  Boke- 
lin,  with  company  G.,  Capt.  Smalley,  consisting  of  46  rank  and  file,  and 
76  friendly  Indians,  marched  through  the  forests  to  the  camp  of  the  cen 
tral  battalion  on  Council's  Prairie. 

Soon  after  returning  to  Olympia  from  the  Blackfoot  country,  I  went 
down  the  Sound  to  take  the  necessary  measures  for  its  defense,  and  inspect 
the  Indian  reservations.  The  result  was  the  organization  of  a  volunteer 
company  at  Seattle,  by  the  election  of  the  Chief  Justice  of  the  Territory 
as  its  commander,  and  the  sending  a  force  of  Indian  auxiliaries  under  Pat 
Kanim  against  the  hostiles  known  to  be  on  Green  River  under  Leschi. 

The  Indian  Agent  of  the  Sound  district  accompanied  the  force  up  the 
Sno-ho-mish  river,  and  the  result  was  one  skirmish,  resulting  in  the  seizing 
and  hanging  two  of  the  hostiles,  and  a  severe  battle,  inflicting  a  loss  of 
five  killed  and  six  wounded,  upon  the  enemy. 

The  same  force  of  Indian  auxiliaries  accompanied  Major  Yan  Bokelin 
on  his  inarch  from  the  Sno-qual-mie  to  Connell's  Prairie. 

Previous  to  the  battle  of  Connell's  Prairie,  White  and  Northcraft,  two 
of  the  most  respectable  citizens  of  the  territory,  were  killed  within 
12  miles  of  the  capital,  and  there  was  grave  cause  of  apprehension  that, 
as  the  central  battalion  moved  into  the  enemy's  country  the  hostiles 
would  turn  its  flank,  and  fall  upon  the  settlements  now  disgarnished  of 
troops. 

Being  unwilling  to  make  any  retrogade  movements,  the  effect  being 
mischievous  in  depressing  the  morale  of  our  troops  and  raising  that  of  the 
enemy,  I  determined  to  move  the  southern  battalion,  already  en  route  for 
the  interior,  to  the  Sound,  unite  it  with  the  central  battalion  to  operate 
vigorously  on  the  Sound  till  the  war  was  closed,  and  then  carry  out  the 
original  plan  of  operating  in  the  interior,  by  sending  over  the  Cascades 
all  the  available  strength  of  the  territorial  forces.  The  order  was  obeyed 
with  an  alacrity  and  promptitude  which  calls  at  my  hands  for  the  warmest 


5 

commendation.  The  express  carrying  the  order  left  Olympia  at  midnight, 
on  the  2d  and  3d  March,  and  on  the  eleventh,  Capt.  (afterwards  Major) 
Maxon  reported  his  company  at  the  Falls,  two  miles  from  this  place,  for 
orders.  The  distance  traveled  both  ways  by  the  express  and  by  the 
troops  being  nearly  three  hundred  miles.  It  must  be  borne  in  mind  that 
the  roads  were  in  the  worst  possible  condition,  and  the  weather  rainy. 

The  other  companies  of  the  southern  battalion  soon  followed.  Those 
of  Capts.  Miller  and  Achilles  were  advanced  to  the  border  settlements  of 
Pierce  and  Thurston  counties,  and  that  of  Capt.  Goff  was  held  in  reserve 
on  the  Skookum  Chuck. 

At  this  juncture,  additional  bands  of  Indian  auxiliaries  were  employed 
from  the  Chehalis  and  Squaxon  tribes  for  the  purpose  of  scouting  the 
country  in  the  vicinity  of  the  Nesqually,  and  offers  of  assistance  were 
freely  tendered  by  nearly  every  tribe  on  the  Sound.  The  Northern  In 
dians  had  also  previously  tendered  their  services,  which  were  declined,  ex 
cepting  some  eight  men  who  acted  as  scouts  in  connection  with  the  north 
ern  battalion.  These  arrangements  enabled  the  country  to  be  held  firmly, 
aud  gave  the  force  to  send  parties  in  the  various  directions  to  hunt  up 
and  reduce  the  enemy. 

The  orders  were  accordingly  given,  and  all  the  arrangements  made 
to  penetrate  the  fastnesses  whence  the-  Indians  sallied  forth  to  spread 
devastation  and  death,  when  a  difficulty,  which  had  been  felt  acknowl 
edged,  and  made  great  cause  of  complaint  from  the  commencement  of  the 
war,  assumed  an  aspect  which  called  for  the  promptest  action. 

I  refer  to  the  so-called  neutrals  in  the  war,  who  remained  on  their 
claims  unmolested,  when  our  patriotic  citizens  were  compelled  to  live  in 
block  houses.  There  is  no  such  thing  in  my  humble  judgment  as  neu 
trality  in  an  Indian  war,  and  whoever  can  remain  on  his  claim  unmolested, 
is  an  ally  of  the  enemy,  and  must  be  dealt  with  as  such.  These  men,  I 
ordered  in  to  the  towns,  giving  them  the  choice  of  residence  at  Olympia, 
Nisqually,  or  Steilacoom,  and  on  their  returning  to  their  claims  in  viola 
tion  of  orders,  1  caused  them  to  be  put  in  close  confinement  at  Steila 
coom. 

Thereupon,  exertions  were  made  to  procure  their  release,  which  I 
met  by  my  proclamation  placing  Pierce  county  under  martial  law. 

The  testimony  of  the  military  officers  in  the  field — that  their  exer 
tions  were  fruitless  to  find  the  enemy  till  the  decisive  step  had  been  taken 
of  ordering  and  keeping  in  the  suspected  persons,  and  that  afterwards 
they  repeatedly  struck  them,  and  effectually  prevented  their  rallying  again, 
is  the  best  evidence  of  the  necessity  of  the  course  taken  by  the  executive, 
I  took  the  responsibility  as  an  incident  of  the  war,  and  as  necessary  to  its 
successful  prosecution  and  termination.  The  whole  territory  was  in  a 


state  of  siege  ;  more  than  one  half  of  the  able  bodied  men  were  in  tlit 
field  ;  the  sole  business  almost  of  the  territory  was  the  war.  It  was  no 
time  for  half  measures,  or  for  running  the  risk  of  the  slaughtering  of  our 
families  and  the  destruction  of  our  property. 

Not  only  was  the  executive  frequently  besought,  previous  to  his 
proclamation  of  martial  law,  to  enforce  it  all  over  the  territory,  but  a 
military  officer  in  command  of  regular  troops  was  urgently  advised  to  do 
so  over  a  portion  of  the  territory  by  persons  who  felt  aggrieved  by  the 
action  of  the  executive. 

When  the  time  has  come  for  all  members  of  the  community  to  resort 
to  arms — when  the  officers  of  justice  are  in  the  field  in  command  of 
troops,  it  would  seem  to  be  the  dictate  of  patriotism,  and  to  be  an  obliga 
tion  of  duty  to  avoid  a  collision  with  the  authority  entrusted  with  the 
general  defense .  Least  of  all,  would  it  be  expected  that  the  field  should 
be  abandoned  not  only  without  orders,  but  without  notice,  to  enter  upon 
a  course,  the  inevitable  result  of  which  was  to  bring  about  a  collision,  and 
engender  strife  and  ill  feeling  amidst  a  population  already  too  small  when 
united,  to  defend  itself  from  the  common  enemy,  and  leave  hands  enough 
at  home  to  procure  food  for  the  coming  year. 

I  impute  no  want  of  patriotism,  no  inconsiderateness  of  action  to 
those  who  have  differed  from  me  ;  I  concede  to  all  the  highest  motives  of 
action  which  may  be  claimed.  I  speak  of  stubborn  facts,  and  of  the  in 
ferences  to  be  drawn  therefrom,  and  of  the  practical  tendency  and  effect 
of  the  action  of  those  who  sought  to  strike  down  the  executive,  when  la 
boriously  and  honestly  exerting  his  whole  force  to  bring  back  peace  and 
prosperity  to  a  suffering  people. 

I  now  leave  this  matter  of  martial  law  in  your  hands,  fellow  citizens, 
of  the  legislative  assembly,  and  I  invite  your  most  rigid  scrutiny  into  the 
necessity  of  proclaiming  it,  and  the  measures  taken  to  enforce  it. 

The  massacre  of  the  Cascades  rendered  it  necessary  to  call  more  vol 
unteers  into  the  service,  and  one  company  under  the  command  of  Capt. 
Wm.  Kelly  was  raised  in  Clarke  county,  and  another  under  the  command 
of  Capt.  E.  D.  Warbass,  in  Lewis  county.  Both  counties  were  block- 
housed,  and  in  Lewis  county  the  roads  were  improved  to  facilitate  commu 
nication,  and  two  ferries  established  on  the  Cowlitz  to  make  the  trail  to 
Monticello  practicable  to  troops  at  all  seasons  of  the  year.  Small  parties 
of  Indian  auxiliaries  were  also  employed  in  Lewis  county  to  watch  the 
trails  and  procure  information. 

In  the  meantime  sight  was  never  lost  of  the  fact  that  a  contingency 
might  arise  making  it  necessary  to  operate  east  of  the  Cascade  mountains, 
and  whilst  the  Southern  battallion  was  operating  with  the  Central  and 
^Northern  battalions  in  bringing  the  war  to  a  close  upon  the  Sound,  sup- 


plies  and  transportation  were  pushed  to  the  Dalles,  and  accumulated  at  the- 
Yelm  prairie,  and  at  Camp  Montgomery  to  move  over  the  Cascades. 

Till  the  war  was  brought  to  a  close  east  of  the  mountains,  the  Sound 
was  not  free  from  danger.  The  Sound  hostiles  were  acting  in  concert 
with  those  of  the  Yakima  and  other  tribes,  and  had  been  actually  assisted 
by  a  force  of  sixty  Yakimas  under  the  son  of  Owhi.  To  secure  the  per 
manent  peace  of  the  Sound,  it  was  essential  to  carry  its  arms  east  of  the- 
mountains,  and  to  teach  the  Indians,  that  not  only  was  the  Sound  adequate 
for  its  own  defence,  but  that  it  had  the  force  to  "carry  the  war  into  Africa." 

Had  the  operations  of  the  regular  troops  been  energetic  and  decisive, 
had  the  true  policy  of  the  war  been  inflexibly  carried  out,  I  should  have 
hesitated  long  before  I  sent  troops  east  of  the  Cascades,  except  in  obedi 
ence  to  a  requisition  of  the  principal  officer  in  command.  But  when  I  re 
ceived  official  information  from  Col.  Wright,  in  command  of  the  Northern 
District,  that  he  did  not  intend  to  operate  in  the  Walla  Walla,  that  his 
advices  were  that  the  Indians  in  that  quarter  and  on  the  Snake  were 
friendly,  and  when  furthermore,  it  being  necessary  to  send  an  Indian  train 
with  supplies  to  the  Nez  Perce  country,  my  requisition  for  an  escort  was 
'practically  refused  by  being  referred  to  Gen.  Wool,  the  time  had  come  for 
a  prompt  and  vigorous  movement. 

When  I  met  the  Nez  Perces  in  their  own  country  last  December,  they 
were  staunch  in  their  determination  to  abide  by  their  treaty,  and  to  keep 
hostiles  out  of  their  country.  They  offered  their  warriors  to  see  me  safe 
through  the  hostile  country.  They  organized  a  company  of  fifty  volunteers 
to  maintain  the  integrity  of  the  nation,  to  defend  the  agent  and  keep  all 
hostiles  out. 

When  the  regular  troops  commenced  their  feeble  and  procrastinating 
course  in  the  Yakima  country,  disaffection  which  had  already  commenced 
in  consequence  of  a  tampering  with  them  by  persons  having  no  authority, 
rapidly  spread  among  the  Nez  Perces,  and  the  Agent  and  the  reliable 
chiefs  advised  me  that  unless  troops  were  rapidly  sent  there,  the  majority 
of  the  nation  would  be  plunged  into  the  war. 

I  accordingly  determined  to  push  forward  all  the  available  troops 
with  the  least  possible  delay.  Lt.  Col.  B.  F.  Shaw  was  intrusted  with  the 
command,  with  Majors  Maxou  and  Blankeuship  as  the  battalion  com 
manders. 

At  this  junction,  I  proposed  to  Lieut.  Col.  Casey  a  joint  operation 
over  the  Cascades  into  the  Yakima,  he  moving  over  the  Nachess  with 
three  companies,  one  to  be  retained  near  the  pass,  and  the  volunteers  to 
move  over  the  Suo-qual-mie  with  a  wagon  train,  that  pass  being  much 
lower  and  more  open  than  the  Nachess,  and  there  being  much  less  snow 
upon  it,  for  Major  Van  Bokclin  had  examined  the  pass  and  reported  th« 


8 

quantity  of  snow,  and  his  expresses  had  reported  that  a  wagon  road  could 
easily  be  made  on  that  line.  The  engineer  officer,  Capt.  De  Lacy,  was 
sent  over  the  route  to  verify  the  fact  by  actual  observation,  and  transpor 
tation  was  collected  in  readiness  to  move  with  the  wagon  train,  should  the 
route  be  found  one  that  the  available  working  parties  could  make  practi 
cable  in  season.  Col.  Casey  declined  the  combined  operation  and  sent  his 
force  to  the  assistance  of  Col.  Wright  by  way  of  the  Columbia,  and  Capt. 
De  Lacy  having  reported  the  route  impracticable  for  the  time  allowed  to 
build  it,  I  determined  to  move  over  the  Nachess  with  pack  animals. 

It  will  be  recollected  that  when  Col.  Wright  first  moved  into  the 
Yakima,  he  met  a  large  force  of  hostiles  near  the  Nachess,  marched  to 
and  encamped  on  its  banks,  and  sent  back  for  reinforcements.  Lt.  Col. 
Shaw  by  my  orders  sent  an  express  over  the  Nachess,  consisting  of  Messrs. 
Coffee  and  Sharp,  to  get  information  and  to  inform  Col .  Wright  that  the 
volunteers  were  about  moving  to  his  assistance. 

The  successful  accomplishment  of  this  very  arduous  and  perilous  ser 
vice,  furnished  the  information  that  the  route  was  entirely  practicable,  and 
Lt.  Col.  Shaw  started  from  Camp  Montgomery  on  the  12th  of  June.  His 
force  consisted  of  the  following  companies  of  the  Central  and  Southern 
battallions  under  the  respective  Majors  Blankenship  and  Maxon,  viz  :  Co. 
C,  Capt.  Henness  ;  Washington  Mounted  Rifles,  Major  Maxon  ;  Co.  D, 
Lt.  Powell,  and  Co.  J,  Capt.  Miller  ;  numbering  in  all,  175  officers  and 
men.  The  pack  train  consisted  of  27  packers  and  107  pack  animals,  un 
der  Capt.  Armstrong,  the  regimental  Quartermaster  and  Commissary. — 
He  determined  after  crossing  White  river  at  Porter's  to  keep  on  the  north 
bank  of  the  river,  though  by  a  veteran  and  energetic  officer  it  was  pro 
nounced  impracticable,  and  he  successfully  accomplished  the  undertaking 
and  brought  his  force  to  the  Wenass  without  the  loss  of  a  day,  and  with 
but  that  of  a  single  animal. 

Whilst  Shaw  was  marching  over  the  Cascades,  new  troops  raised  on 
the  Columbia,  rendezvoused  at  the  Dalles,  and  on  the  22d  of  June,  a  force 
of  two  companies  of  175  men  under  Capts.  Goff  and  Williams,  with  a 
train  of  forty-five  wagons  and  35  pack  animals  in  charge  of  Quartermaster 
and  Commissary  Robie,  commenced  its  march  from  the  Dalles  to  join  Shaw 
at  Walla  Walla. 

On  the  9th  of  July  the  whole  force  came  together  on  Mill  Creek  in 
the  Walla  Walla,  including  the  Nez  Perce  auxiliaries,  who  inarched  from 
the  Nez  Perce  country  under  Lt.  Col.  Craig,  except  a  force  of  about  sev 
enty-five  men,  which,  under  Goff,  separated  from  the  train  on  the  Umatilla 
to  march  to  the  assistance  of  Major  Layton  of  the  Oregon  volunteers,  in 
presence  of  a  large  number  of  the  enemy,  in  the  Blue  mountains. 

At  a  conference  held  with  the  Nez  Perce  chiefs,  the  strongest  assu- 


9 

ranees  were  given  of  the  friendship  of  the  whole  nation,  and  Capt.  Robie 
proceeded  without  an  escort  other  than  that  furnished  by  the  Nez  Perces, 
with  an  Indian  train  to  the  Nez  Perce  country. 

Lt.  Col.  Shaw  learning  that  the  hostiles  were  in  the  Grand  Ronde, 
determined  to  march  against  them,  and  moving  in  the  night  by  an  unused 
trail,  he  fell  upon  the  main  body  the  third  day,  and  struck  the  hardest  and 
most  brilliant  blow  of  the  war.  The  enemy  were  pursued  some  fifteen 
miles,  nearly  all  their  provisions  and  ammunition  were  captured,  over  two 
hundred  horses  fell  into  his  hands,  and  the  loss  of  the  enemy  could  not 
have  been  less  than  from  forty  to  sixty  killed  and  mortally  wounded. 

Two  days  before  the  battle  of  the  Grand  Ronde,  the  Washington 
volunteers,  in  concert  with  the  Oregon  troops,  fought  the  battle  of  Burnt 
river,  having  pursued  the  enemy  from  the  head  waters  of  the  Umatilla. 

Whilst  these  decisive  operations  were  going  on,  for  the  full  account 
of  which  I  will  refer  you  to  the  reports  of  Col.  Shaw  and  his  officers,  the 
disaffected  portion  of  the  Nez  Perce  nation  began  to  use  threatening  lan 
guage  again  and  ordered  Capt.  Robie,  who  had  just  arrived  with  his  train, 
out  of  their  country.  Capt.  Robie  returned  by  forced  marches,  found  Col. 
Shaw  at  the  Walla  Walla,  just  returned  from  the  Grand  Ronde.  The 
Nez  Perces,  however,  again  professed  friendship  on  hearing  of  the  success 
of  our  military  operations,  and  in  answer  to  Col.  Shaw's  message,  stating 
he  was  their  friend,  but  if  they  beat  their  drums  for  war,  he  would  parade 
his  men  for  battle,  made  again  the  most  earnest  protestations  of  friendship. 

This  seemed  to  be  a  favorable  moment  for  doing  away  with  disaffec 
tion,  and  I  immediately  had  word  sent  to  all  the  Indians,  both  friendly  and 
hostile,  to  meet  me  at  Walla  Walla.  It  was  made  an  express  condition 
that  the  only  basis  on  which  a  conference  would  be  held  with  the  hostiles 
was  that  of  absolute  submission  to  the  justice  and  mercy  of  the  govern 
ment.  Col.  Shaw,  who  in  obedience  to  his  original  orders  had  already 
communicated  with  the  Indians  to  the  same  end,  now  sent  my  message  to 
all  the  tribes.  The  hostiles  were  directed  to  come  without  their  arms. — 
They  were  guaranteed  safe  conduct  coming  to,  at,  and  returning  from  the 
Council  ground. 

The  day  my  express  started  for  the  Walla  Walla,  calling  into  council 
the  Indians,  my  proclamation  was  issued  calling  out  two  hundred  volun 
teers  to  strengthen  Shaw's  command — nearly  every  man  going  out  of  ser 
vice  from  the  expiration  of  his  term  of  enlistment ;  at  the  same  time  I  ad 
dressed  Col.  Wright,  in  command  of  the  Northern  district,  a  letter  urging 
him  to  occupy  the  Walla  Walla  with  regular  troops,  and  to  accompany  me 
to  the  Walla  Walla  to  be  present  at  the  council. 

On  my  way  to  the  council,  I  met  Col.  Wright  on  the  Columbia 
river,  and  having  ascertained  from  him  that  he  was  despatching  a  force  of 


10 

regulars  to  the  valley,  and  that  they  would  probably  reach  that  point  in 
season  for  the  council,  I  revoked  my  proclamation  calling  out  two  hundred 
volunteers,  and  the  result  of  many  conferences  which  I  had  with  him  before 
leaving  the  Dalles,  was,  though  he  was  unable  to  accompany  me  from  the 
press  of  other  duties,  that  I  was  led  to  expect  the  co-operation  and  assist 
ance  of  the  regular  troops  about  to  occupy  the  Walla  Walla  valley. 

The  regular  troops,  consisting  of  four  companies,  reached  the  valley 
early  in  September,  and  the  volunteers,  except  a  single  company,  that  of 
Goff,  was  sent  down  to  be  mustered  out  of  service. 

The  council  was  now  opened.  A  large  assemblage  of  Indians  were 
on  the  ground.  The  head  chief,  chiefs,  principal  men,  and  nearly  one-half 
of  the  bulk  of  the  Nez  Perce  nation,  the  Cayuses,  the  Walla  Wallas,  the 
Umatillas,  the  chiefs  of  the  Des  Chutes  and  Tye  Indians,  the  Palouses,  the 
Yakimas,  and  individual  members  of  the  other  tribes.  So  hostile  were 
nearly  all  the  Indians  but  a  portion  of  the  Nez  Perces,  that  I  made  a  re 
quisition  upon  Lt.  Col.  Steptoe  to  protect  my  camp,  about  to  be  left  with 
out  troops  by  sending  down  Goff's  company,  whose  terms  of  service  were 
also  expiring,  and  on  his  refusal  to  comply  with  my  requisition,  that  com 
pany  was  retained  to  guard  my  camp. 

The  council  continued  six  days,  with  an  interval  of  two  days  occupied 
in  transferring  the  council  ground  to  the  vicinity  of  Lt.  Col.  Steptoe's 
camp,  some  seven  miles  from  the  point  where  the  council  opened,  a  step 
absolutely  necessary  to  guard  my  party  from  an  attack  during  the  holding 
the  council,  Steptoe  refusing  to  send  any  troops  to  strengthen  my  escort. 

The  result  can  easily  be  predicted.  The  Indians  felt  there  was  a  dif 
ference  of  judgment  and  action  between  the  Superintendent  of  Indian  Af 
fairs  and  the  military  officer  in  command.  The  one  inflexibly  insisted  upon 
absolute  submission,  as  the  condition  of  a  suspension  of  hostilities,  utterly 
refused  to  grant  other  terms,  demanded  the  giving  up  of  murderers  to  pun 
ishment.  The  military  officer  did  not  recognize  a  state  of  war,  and  pro 
posed  to  treat  them  as  though  they  had  been  good  Indians  from  the 
beginning. 

All  this  occurred  when  their  deportment  was  insulting,  when  in  their 
camps  they  threatened  nothing  but  war,  and  when  in  council  they  were  as 
persistant  in  demanding  an  abrogation  of  all  the  treaties  and  the  withdraw 
al  of  the  whites  from  the  country,  as  I  was  in  demanding  obedience  to  the 
law  in  all  its  various  obligations,  whether  cessions  of  land,  surrender  of 
murderers,  or  respecting  the  lives  and  property  of  the  whites. 

The  honor  of  myself  and  my  party,  the  Indians  having  come  to  the 
council  on  a  pledge  of  safe  conduct,  was  concerned  in  no  act  being  done, 
ever  under  provocation,  which  would  taint  the  good  name  of  our  people, 


11 

already  for  a  long  time  the  theme  of  slaiider  and  vituperation  at  the  hands 
of  malicious  and  designing  men. 

The  council  adjourned  without  effecting  its  object.  Nothing  was  ac 
complished  in  healing  the  difficulties  of  the  Nez  Perces.  I  started  on  my 
way  home  and  was  attacked  before  I  had  gone  three  miles  by  a  vastly  su 
perior  force  of  the  enemy.  No  impression  was  made  upon  the  party,  not 
an  animal  was  captured,  and  but  one  man  killed.  A  considerable  loss  was 
inflicted  upon  the  Indians. 

I  indulged  the  hope  that  this  act  of  the  Indians  would  awake  the  of 
ficers  in  command  of  the  regular  troops  to  the  actual  condition  of  affairs, 
and  that,  as  the  Indians  had  not  only  attacked  the  authorities  of  the  terri 
tory,  but  the  regular  camp  itself,  had  burnt  out  all  its  grass,  and  had 
compelled  it  to  move  to  another  place,  that  the  attempt  would  be  made  to 
chastise  the  Indians  and  make  them  feel  the  power  of  the  government — the 
more  so,  as  the  regular  service  were  witnesses  of  the  propriety  and  modera 
tion  which  characterized  the  proceedings  of  the  council,  of  the  extraordi 
nary  forbearance  and  good  conduct  of  the  volunteers  and  Indian  employees, 
and  that  there  was  not  the  slightest  provocation  for  the  attack  made  by 
the  Indians  near  the  council  ground. 

Unhappily  other  councils  have  prevailed,  and  I  have  recently  received 
intelligence  that  the  quasi  peace  policy  of  the  Yaktma  had  been  adopted 
in  the  Walla  Walla,  and  that  a  temporary  quiet  had  been  established  by 
surrendering  to  the  demands  of  the  Indians.  Col.  Wright  met  in  October, 
the  prominent  hostile  Nez  Perce  chiefs,  and  there  took  the  ground  that  the 
treaty  ought  not  to  be  insisted  upon. 

This  ground  taken  in  connection  with  the  order  which  Lieut.  Col. 
Steptoe  has  recently  published  by  order  of  Gen.  Wool;  prohibiting  in  fact 
the  settlers  returning  to  their  claims  in  the  Walla  Walla  valley,  presents 
the  most  extraordinary  and  unprecedented  abandonment  of  the  great  duty 
of  protecting  our  citizens  and  maintaining  the  honor  and  dignity  of  the 
government  in  the  whole  annals  of  our  Indian  relations.  It  calls  for  the 
most  earnest  remonstrance  at  your  hands,  and  for  the  prompt  interposition 
of  the  home  authorities. 

I  will  again  inquire,  even  at  the  risk  of  some  repetition,  under  what 
circumstances  did  the  war  commence  on  our  part,  east  of  the  Cascades  ? 
Treaties  had  been  made  with  the  most  powerful  tribes  in  that  quarter,  the 
Yakimas,  the  Walla  Wallas,  the  Cayuses,  the  Nez  Perces  and  other  tribes, 
in  which  it  was  guarantied  that  whites  should  pass  unmolested  through 
their  country,  and  that  the  whole  country  should  at  once  be  open  to  settle 
ment,  except  the  tracts  set  apart  for  reservations  and  those  actually  enclosed 
and  under  cultivation  by  the  Indians.  Our  citizens  in  good  faith  started, 
some  with  their  flocks  and  herds,  to  locate  on  the  fine  grazing  lands  of  the 


12 

interior,  and  others  to  explore  and  work  the  gold  mines  further  north.— 
They  were  orderly  citizens,  who  had  established  characters  for  sobriety  and 
integrity  at  home,  and  who  would  have  kept,  and  did  keep  untarnished, 
the  good  name  of  the  territory  in  the  progress  eastward  of  its  settlements. 
Many  of  these  citizens  entirely  unsuspicious  of  danger  were  ruthlessly  and 
treacherously  killed  in  the  Yakima,  and  when  the  Agent  of  the  Yakimas, 
Bolon,  went  to  their  country  they  killed  him  also,  and  danced  his  scalp  in 
their  camps.  Thereupon  it  was  determined  to  demand  the  murderers,  and 
in  the  event  of  resistance,  to  punish  the  tribe  ;  two  expeditions  marched 
into  the  Yakima  with  this  avowed  object.  The  first  was  driven  out  by  an 
overwhelming  force  of  the  enemy,  and  the  second  drove  the  Yakimas  out 
of  their  country  to  east  of  the  Columbia,  and  then  abandonded  the  country 
itself.  The  third  expedition,  under  Col.  Wright,  seems  to  have  lost  sight 
entirely  of  the  imperative  duty  which  devolved  upon  it  of  seizing  these 
murderers  and  of  not  relaxing  in  a  single  jot  or  tottle  the  original  purpose 
of  the  war.  Its  long  delays,  its  refusal  to  fight  when  opportunities  offered, 
its  great  desire  to  talk,  its  persisting  in  talking  even  though  the  Indians 
did  not  make  their  appearance  in  the  council  house  prepared  for  their  re 
ception,  its  long  marching  and  countermarching,  its  proclaiming  a  peace  in 
the  Yakima,  not  a  murderer  seized  and  held  in  custody,  its  affectation  to 
treat  as  refugees  and  men  of  no  influence  the  great  chiefs  as  Kamiakin  and 
the  flower  of  the  nation,  who  were  at  this  time  at  work  stirring  up  the 
tribes  of  the  interior,  leaves  on  the  mind  the  impression  that  it  was  not  the 
object  of  the  expedition  to  bring  to  an  honorable  and  just  close  an  unhap 
py  state  of  things,  to  enforce  the  honor  of  our  arms  and  the  power  and 
justice  of  our  government,  but  simply  by  quasi  peaces  and  pretended  con 
ciliations  to  cast  the  whole  censure  of  the  war  upon  our  people,  and  to 
.bolster  up  the  reputation  of  a  veteran  commander,  who  having  grossly 
mistaken  the  character  of  the  contest,  having  slandered  most  cruelly  and 
falsely  the  people  of  the  territory,  was  endeavoring  to  sustain  himself  at 
any  and  all  sacrifices  of  honor,  truth,  and  the  public  welware. 

A  temporary  quiet  undoubtedly  now  exists  in  consequence  of  the 
regular  service  having  surrendered  to  the  demands  of  the  Indians.  That 
quiet  may  continue  so  long  as  the  regular  service  continues  to  be  the  ally 
of  the  Indians.  But  call  upon  the  Indians  to  surrender  the  murderers — 
call  upon  them  to  give  free  passages  to  all  whites  passing  through  their 
country — call  upon  them  to  molest  no  white  settling  any  where  in  the 
country  except  on  the  lands  set  apart  as  reservations,  and  the  quasi  peace 
will  be  broken  and  the  tribes  will  again  appear  in  arms. 

These  facts  have  all  been  presented  by  me  to  the  authorities  at  home. 
I  have  earnestly  called  for  some  action  of  the  government.  I  have  re 
commended  that  all  the  hostile  tribes  be  planted  by  the  strong  arm  of  the 


13 

military  power  on  reservations  to  be  established  by  act  of  Congress, 

Under  the  donation  law,  the  whole  country  is  now  unquestionably 
open  to  settlement,  and  there  is  no  authority  short  of  a  law  of  Congress, 
or  of  the  sanction  of  the  Senate  to  a  treaty  with  the  Indians,  which  can 
say  to  the  settler,  thus  far  shall  you  go  and  no  further.  But  in  the  case  of 
claims  actually  taken,  where  the  provisions  of  the  donation  law  have  been 
complied  with,  not  even  Congress  can  take  away  the  right  therein  vested 
in  the  citizen  without  compensation  ;  much  less  can  a  military  officer  in  the 
plentitude  of  his  power,  issue  his  edicts,  wiping  out  the  entire  country  of 
Walla  Walla. 

I  congratulate  you,  fellow  citizens  of  the  Legislative  Assembly,  that 
on  this  your  assembling,  you  will  find  nothing  to  reproach  the  people  of 
our  beloved  territory  with,  for  their  conduct  either  at  home  or  in  the  field. 

During  the  first  six  months  of  this  war,  not  an  Indian  was  killed  ex 
cept  in  battle.  Throughout  the  war,  not  an  Indian  has  been  killed  in  a 
volunteer  camp.  Captured  animals  have  been  accounted  for  as  public 
property.  The  animals  and  property  of  friendly  Indians  has  been  cared 
for  and  returned  to  them.  Since  last  April  some  murders  have  occurred, 
one  recently,  under  circumstances  of  great  aggravation  ;  but  the  wonder 
is  that  these  murders  were  not  much  more  numerous,  for  it  must  be  borne 
in  mind  that  for  a  long  time  the  fealty  of  all  the  tribes  was  uncertain,  our 
citizens  were  in  constant  apprehension,  and  a  spirit  of  exasperation  grad 
ually  rose  and  gained  strenth  in  consequence  of  the  positive  suffering  of  the 
entire  community. 

Our  troops  have  been  subsisted  as  well,  and  as  systematically  as  those 
of  the  regular  service.  Our  Quartermaster  department  has  at  least  been 
as  efficient.  The  troops  have  never  been  delayed  for  want  of  transportar 
tion.  They  have  never  starved  and  been  tempted  to  plunder  for  want  of 
subsistence. 

But  above  all,  we  have  waged  the  war  with  humanity,  with  modera 
tion,  with  honor  to  our  country  and  honor  to  ourselves.  The  dignity,  the 
justice,  the  mercy  of  the  government,  has  been  vindicated  at  our  hands. 

On  the  Sound,  where  our  force  exceeded  that  of  the  regular  service, 
where  we  occupied  the  circumference,  and  the  regular  service  the  centre, 
we  point  to  our  block-houses,  to  our  roads,  to  our  scouts,  to  our  expresses, 
to  the  battles  fought,  to  the  camps  struck,  the  Indian  auxiliaries  brought 
into  the  field,  to  the  hostile  Indians  reduced  to  unconditional  submission, 
to  the  general  quiet  and  contentment  of  the  Indian  tribes,  as  evidence  of 
the  vigor,  the  judgment,  and  the  success  of  our  operations. 

The  march  over  the  Nachess  with  ample  supplies,  the  troops  cutting 
the  road  as  they  marched,  snow  still  on  the  mountains,  each  animal  taking 
its  sack  of  oats  for  three  nights  without  grass,  and  the  horseman  going  on 


14 

foot,  the  simultaneous  movement  of  our  troops  on  the  Columbia  with  the 
trains  and  supplies  from  the  Dalles,  the  vigorous  scouts  made  on  the  route, 
and  the  movement  of  our  Indian  auxiliaries  from  the  Nez  Perce  country, 
and  all  meeting  in  the  Walla  Walla  on  a  single  day,  show  that  our  troops 
had  discipline,  had  constancy,  had  patriotism,  had  the  public  service  alone 
at  heart.  It  shows  too  that  military  skill  was  applied,  and  that  we  had 
good  leaders  as  well  as  good  men. 

The  movement  of  the  Northern  battalion  to  Seattle  and  the  head  of 
the  Sound  amid  drenching  rains,  having  to  cross  swollen  streams,  and  the 
march  back  again,  its  trails  cut  on  this  line,  on  the  line  over  the  Sno-qual- 
mie  into  the  main  Yakima  and  down  the  Sno-qual-mie  river,  show  that  it 
could  work  as  well  as  fight,  and  that  it  appreciated  the  old  Roman  princi 
pal  of  conquering  a  country  by  the  roads  it  built. 

One  thing  yet  remains  to  establish  the  permanent  peace  of  the  Sound, 
so  far  as  it  is  disconnected  with  its  relations  with  the  tribes  east  of  the 
mountains.  I  refer  to  apprehending  and  seizing  the  Sound  murderers.  I 
made  requisition  upon  Col.  Wright  for  their  delivery  to  the  civil  authority 
when  they  were  in  the  Yakima,  which  he  agreed  to  comply  with. 

Since  their  return  to  the  Sound,  I  have  made  a  similar  requisition 
upon  Lieut.  Col.  Casey,  and  he  has  finally  returned  an  equivocal  answer 
referring  the  matter  to  Gen.  Wool. 

It  is  manifest  that  a  peace  cannot  be  considered  as  achieved,  or  the 
functions  of  the  military  exhausted,  so  long  as  the  great  leaders  and  insti 
gators  of  the  war  are  at  large,  especially  if  such  men  are  arraigned  before 
the  tribunals  of  the  territory  on  charges  affecting  their  lives.  It  is  un 
derstood  that  the  military  have  proclaimed  a  peace,  and  holding  them  to 
the  logical  consequences  of  such  proclamation,  we  have  the  right  to  hold 
them  responsible  for  the  delivery  of  these  men  as  in  their  actual  custody. 
I  regret  to  inform  you,  gentlemen,  that  there  is  no  disposition  on  the  part 
of  the  service  here  to  do  what  I  conceive  to  be  its  duty  in  the  appre 
hension  of  these  men.  There  is  a  strong  disposition  to  ascribe  all  the  ef 
forts  made  to  secure  them,  to  a  spirit  of  vindictiveness  and  vengeance. 

I  have  refused  to  receive  the  last  instalment  of  Indian  refugees  from 
the  Yakima,  till  the  murderers  of  their  number  had  been  apprehended 
and  turned  over  to  the  civil  authorities.  I  shall  then  receive  the  remain 
der  and  provide  for  them. 

I  have  to  speak  in  terms  of  the  warmest  commendation  of  the  con 
duct  of  the  officers  and  men  of  the  volunteer  forces,  and  of  the  efficiency 
of  the  several  branches  of  the  staff.  That  most  difficult  of  all  the  de 
partments — the  Quartermasters  and  Commissary  department — which, 
generally  kept  distinct,  was  a  single  department  in  our  service,  has  had 
extraordinary  efficiency  imparted  to  it,  reflecting  the  highest  capacity  and 


devotion  to  the  public  service,  upon  its  chief  and  subordinate  officers.  In 
this  connection  I  will  call  your  special  attention  to  the  able  report  of 
Gen.  Miller,  and  I  will  state  that  all  the  commendation  which  in  it  he 
bestows  upon  the  officers  and  employees  of  his  department,  is  simply  their 
honest  dues. 

The  special  acknowledgments  of  the  people  of  our  territory  are  due 
to  Oregon  for  the  aid  which  it  freely  tendered  to  us  in  the  prosecution  of 
the  war.  The  companies  of  Miller,  Goff,  and  Richards  (afterwards 
Williams)  were  almost  exclusively  raised  in  our  sister  Territory. 

In  the  management  of  the  volunteer  service,  it  has  been  found  that 
the  dishonorably  discharging  of  men  for  disobedience  of  orders,  or  for 
bad  conduct,  was  in  most  cases  sufficient  to  prevent  a  laxity  of  discipline. 
Every  persistent  disobedience  of  orders  has  been  followed  by  a  dishon 
orable  discharge  ;  the  effect  of  which  will  be  to  forfeit  the  pay  and  allow 
ance  of  the  offending  party. 

Military  courts  have  rarely  been  assembled.  A  court  martial  for 
the  trial  of  some  minor  offenses,  was  called  in  the  Walla  Walla  by  Lieut. 
Col.  Shaw  :  a  military  commission  at  Seattle  for  the  trial  of  Indians,  and 
one  at  camp  Montgomery  for  the  trial  of  certain  persons  accused  of  cor 
responding  with,  furnishing  food  and  ammunition  to  the  enemy,  and,  of 
volunteers  charged  with  conduct  prejudicial  to  good  order  and  discipline. 
Resorts  to  military  courts  have  been  discouraged,  and  the  slight  necessity 
for  them  is  cause  of  congratulation. 

One  of  the  most  significant  facts  in  proof  of  the  serious  character  of 
our  Indian  troubles,  is  that  it  drove  all  but  one  of  our  surveying  parties 
from  the  field,  and  for  a  considerable  period  suspended  the  operations  of 
that  branch  of  the  public  service.  The  territory,  however,  has  the  benefit 
of  the  military  experience  of  the  Surveyor  General,  as  Adjutant  General 
of  the  Volunteers  ;  and  I  take  this  occasion  to  make  my  special  acknowl 
edgments  for  his  services. 

In  his  report  to  the  Commissioner  of  the  General  Land  Office,  Gen. 
Tilton  says  : 

In  October,  1853,  this  office  had  in  the  field  8  surveying  parties  in 
full  and  active  employment.  A  simultaneous  outbreak  of  the  Indian 
tribes  inhabiting  the  greater  portion  of  the  territory,  and  numerous  mur 
ders  committed  by  the  savages  upon  our  people,  rendered  it  impossible 
for  but  one  party  to  remain  in  the  field. 

As  there  were  but  about  1,700  white  male  inhabitants  in  the  terri- 
tory,  and  2,000  Indians  were  absolutely  in  arms,  it  became  a  matter  of 
vital  necessity  for  all  able-bodied  men  to  bear  arms  in  assisting  the  feeble 
garrisons  of  regular  troops  who  were  stationed  at  their  widely  separated 
posts. 


"  I  entered  the  service  myself,  and,  as  adjutant  general  to  the  vol 
unteer  forces  raised  by  Acting  Governor  Mason,  did  dnty  for  several 
months  in  that  capacity. 

"  Three  of  the  young  gentlemen  of  my  office,  Messrs.  George  Bright, 
Edward  Gibson,  and  J.  J.  Lodge  enlisted  and  made  a  campaign  with 
credit.  Almost  all  the  deputy  surveyors  and  the  most  of  the  surveying 
parties  enlisted, 

"  As  there  were  2,000  Indians  known  to  be  hostile,  and  some  8,000 
others  wavering,  active  and  decided  measures  were  necessary  to  subdue 
them,  and  overawe  those  who  were  apparently  only  awaiting  the  chance 
to  join  which  ever  party  proved  the  stronger.  One  thousand  men  were 
raised  and  subsisted  for  nine  months  by  the  patriotism  and  devotion  of  the 
scanty  population. 

"  The  families  occupied  the  five  villages  and  block  houses  of  the 
territory,  and  almost  every  farm  was  abandoned. 

"  Such  was  tbe  state  of  affairs  at  the  opening  of  spring.  By  June 
last,  the  enemy  occupying  the  region  east  of  Puget  Sound,  and  west  of 
the  Cascade  range,  were  effectually  subdued,  and  the  usual  employments 
of  life  resumed." 

The  whole  expense  of  our  service  will  be  a  matter  of  record  in  the 
course  of  this  and  next  month,  and  every  thing  will  be  ready  for  the  ac 
tion  of  the  commissioners  appointed  by  the  Secretary  of  War,  to  audit 
and  allow  the  war  claims  of  Oregon  and  Washington. 

All  the  transactions  of  the  volunteer  service,  in  enlistments,  dis 
charges,  purchases,  issues  and  sales  have  been  brought  before  the  review 
of  the  executive.  In  regard  to  the  service  of  troops,  the  papers  have 
been  consolidated  in  the  office  of  the  Adjutaut  General.  Those  relating 
to  the  purchases,  issues  and  sales,  in  the  office  of  the  Quartermaster  and 
Commissary  General. 

All  scrip  has  been  issued  by  the  Quarter  Master  and  Commissary 
General,  and  approved  by  the  commander-in-chief.  It  has  been  registered 
in  both  offices.  Sales  have  been  made  at  public  auction  for  scrip,  and  at 
prices  exceeding  in  the  aggregate  the  original  cost,  and  the  scrip  cancelled 
appears  on  the  books  of  the  proper  office. 

The  merit  of  our  system  is,  that  it  has  prevented  'the  issuing  of  un 
authorized  scrip.  It  has  enforced  system  and  economy,  and  a  strict  ac 
countability  in  purchases.  The  books  show  the  service  rendered  or  the 
articles  purchased  for  any  given  price  of  scrip.  It  will  make  compara 
tively  easy  the  labors  of  the  commissioners  in  auditing  our  accounts. 

There  has  been  issued  the  sum  of  $1,019,090  20  in  scrip,  of  which 
the  sum  of  $132,721  09  has  been  cancelled  by  sales.  About  $40,500 


17 

remain  to  be  Issued,  which  will  leave  the  amount  of  scrip  to  be  redeemed 
$926,869  15. 

In  the  three  months  organization,  the  force  consisted  of  16  compa 
nies,  17  captains,  28  1st  lieutenants,  18  2d  lieutenants,  813  non-commis 
sioned  officers  and  privates,  giving  in  the  aggregate  65,794  days  service 
of  a  single  man. 

In  the  six  months  organization,  the  force  consisted  of  18  companies, 
20  captains,  20  1st  lieutenants,  18  2d  lieutenants,  1002  non-commissioned 
officers  and  privates,  giving  a  force  of  1,060  men,  and  an  aggregate  of 
133,259  days'  service  of  a  single  man. 

I  subjoin  herewith  reports  from  the  Adjutant  and  Quarter  Master 
and  Commissary  Generals,  setting  forth  the  above  statistics  in  detail. 

I  also  subjoin  reports  from  the  ordnance  officer,  R.  M.  Walker,  in 
regard  to  the  public  arms,  and  from  the  engineer  officer,  Capt.  DeLacy, 
showing  the  posts  and  block  houses  established  by  our  citizens  and  volun 
teers  throughout  the  territory,  the  wagon  and  pack  trails  cut  out.  This 
report  is  accompanied  by  two  maps,  showing  in  detail  the  operations  of 
our  troops  and  people. 

Accompanying  this  message  will  be  found  selections  from  the  corres 
pondence  so  arranged  in  appropriate  divisions,  as  to  give  a  connected  and 
full  view  of  all  the  operations  of  the  war. 

The  correspondence  with  the  departments  and  with  the  officers  of  the 
military  and  naval  service,  will  but  illustrate  the  desire  which  has  animated 
me  to  co-operate  with  them,  and  to  insure  our  joint  efforts  being  directed 
against  a  common  enemy.  I  deemed  it  my  duty  to  refuse  the  requisition 
made  at  the  instance  of  Gen.  Wool,  of  Lieut  Col.  Casey,  of  the  15th 
March,  for  two  companies  of  volunteers,  to  be  mustered  into  the  regular 
service,  for  the  reasons  stated  in  my  letters  to  him  of  the  15th  March,  and 
to  Gen.  Wool  of  the  20th  March.  Our  troops  were  in  the  field  prosecuting 
a  vigorous  campaign.  Supplies  and  transportation  had  already  been  col 
lected  for  it,  and  it  seemed  to  me  not  only  unwise,  but  tending  to  mis 
chievous  results  to  change  the  plan  of  campaign,  which  promised  a  term 
ination  of  the  war.  The  requisition  was  obviously  but  a  formal  one,  it 
being  well  known  that  it  could  not  and  would  not  be  complied  with . 

I  have  been  careful  to  communicate  frequently  with  the  military  and 
naval  officers,  to  the  end  that  there  might  be  no  want  of  co-operation  from 
lack  of  information,  and  the  examination  of  the  correspondence  with 
Lieut.  Col.  Casey,  will  show  that  in  the  operations  of  the  campaign  we 
acted  together.  He  was  cognizant  of  and  appreciated  the  importance  of 
occupying  the  line  of  the  Snohomish,  and  of  sending  into  the  field  Indian 
auxiliaries.  I  will  especially  refer  to  his  occupying  our  posts  when  it  be 
came  desirable  to  have  the  services  of  our  men  over  the  Cascades,  or  to 
3 


18 

provide  for  the  disbandment  of  those  whose  terms  of  service  were  about 
expiring,  as  evidence  of  the  merits  of  our  operations. 

The  people  of  the  territory  are  under  obligations  to  the  navy  for 
their  many  and  valuable  services.  The  timely  arrival  of  the  quota  of 
territorial  arms  for  the  river  counties  is  due  to  Capt.  Aldeu,  taking  them 
in  his  steamer,  the  Active,  to  San  Francisco,  and  thence  shipping  them  by 
the  mail  steamer  to  Tanconver. 

The  navy  has  cruised  much  on  the  Sound — has  rendered  great  aid 
to  the  Indian  service,  and  has  always  shown  a  spirit  of  sympathy  for  our 
situation,  and  a  desire  to  relieve  it  is  most  emphatically  exemplified  in  its 
services  at  Seattle,  where,  for  many  weeks,  the  place  was  garrisoned  in 
part  by  men  from  the  ships.  Its  recent  brilliant  engagement  with  the 
Northern  Indians  at  Port  Gamble,  where,  after  exhausting  all  proper  ef 
forts  to  effect  their  peaceable  removal  from  the  territory,  it  resorted  to 
arms — killing  2T,  and  wounding  25  Indians,  destroying  their  canoes  and 
property,  and  reducing  them  to  submission,  will,  it  is  hoped,  stop  fur 
ther  marauding  expeditions.  The  blow  was  struck  at  a  seasonable  mo 
ment,  for  there  is  reason  to  believe  the  Northern  Indians  had  an  under 
standing  with  the  hostile  leaders  on  the  Sound,  and  that  they  had  agreed 
upon  a  junction  with  the  hostiles  from  all  quarters  to  attack  the  settle 
ments  at  the  head  of  the  Sound.  The  apprehension  of  the  two  hostile 
leaders,  Leschi  and  Quiemuth,  probably  prevented  the  combination,  and 
the  blow  struck  by  the  navy,  it  is  hoped,  will  keep  the  Northern  Indians 
out  of  the  Sound. 

The  correspondence  itself  will  best  show  the  spirit  which  has  actuated 
the  navy. 

It  is  cause  of  congratulation  that  every  case  of  a  loan  of  arms  or 
ammunition  made  by  public  officers,  whether  of  the  army,  navy  or  revenue 
service,  notwithstanding  the  censure  it  provoked  at  the  time  from  imme 
diate  superiors  on  this  coast,  in  one  case  to  the  extent  of  threatening  a 
removal  from  office,  was  not  only  approved,  but  highly  commended  and 
endorsed  by  the  authorities  at  home. 

In  view  of  the  war-like,  hardy  and  revengeful  character  of  the  North 
ern  Indians,  of  their  means  of  transportation,  canoes  carrying  seventy- 
five  men,  which  can  be  moved  with  rapidity  against  wind  and  tide,  their 
visits  to  our  settlements  ought  to  be  discountenanced,  and  a  steam  vessel 
of  war  of  large  size  and  speed,  with  two  efficient  steam  barges,  should  be 
furnished  for  our  protection.  I  will  again  recommend  that  congress  be 
again  memorialized  to  grant  this  protection,  and  that  the  employment  of 
Northern  Indians  be  made  penal  by  act  of  the  legislature. 

I  will  earnestly  call  your  attention  to  the  subject  of  a  revision  of  the 
militia  lawg.  I  will  recommend  that  not  exceeding  three  regiments  be 


organized  :  that  provision  be  made  by  law  for  the  organizing  of  the  staff, 
and  for  its  appointment.  No  provision  is  made  in  the  existing  law  for 
aids  to  the  Commander-in-chief  and  the  Brigadier  General  of  the  militia, 
nor  for  an  officer  of  engineers,  which,  in  some  of  the  state  organizations, 
has  become  a  branch  of  the  service. 

All  the  able-bodied  men  of  the  territory  should  be  enrolled  as  pro 
vided  for  under  existing  laws,but  some  encouragement  should  be  given  to 
volunteer  organizations.  I  will  recommend  that  some  provision  be  made 
whereby  four  companies  of  rangers  shall  be  raised  as  a  part  of  the  militia 
organization,  and  shall  meet  some  two  or  three  times  a  year,  in  camps  of 
one  week's  continuance,  for  purposes  of  drill  and  instruction. 

I  would  also  recommend  the  organization  of  a  small  corps  of  artille 
rists  and  engineers,  organized,  say  into  four  or  six  sections  ;  each  number 
ing  from  15  to  20  men,  with  one  lieutenant,  one  sergeant,  and  one  corpo 
ral  to  each  section,  and  the  whole  under  command  of  a  first  and  second 
captain.  It  should  be  the  duty  of  the  senior  captain  of  engineers  to 
keep  constantly  advised  of  the  topography  of  the  country,  and  its  facilities 
of  communication. 

A  medical  department  should  also  be  organized. 

From  information  derived  from  the  Surveyor  General,  I  present  the 
following  statistics  in  reference  to  the  surveys  ot  the  public  lands: 

Statement,  showing  the   amount  of  surveys   executed  in  Washington 

Territory. 

Amount  surveyed  under  contracts  with  the  Surveyor  General 

of  Oregon  territory,  1,816  miles. 

Amount  surveyed  since  organization  of  Surveyor  General's 

office  in  Washington  territory,  ,          2,969     " 

Total,  4,845     " 

Of  which  there  has  been  surveyed  since  date  of  last  message,      966     " 

Amount  now  under  contract,  225     " 

Estimated  amount  of  surveys  for  1857,  4,500     " 

Provision  has  been  made  for  running  our  northern  boundary  line,  but 
nothing  has  yet  been  effected  in  the  way  of  relieving  the  territory  from 
the  foreign  corporations  in  our  midst.  This  want  of  action  is  retarding 
the  settlement  of  the  country,  and  has  specially  of  late,  been  the  cause  of 
mischievous  results.  Colville  is  at  this  moment  practically  a  British 
dependency,  the  road  thither  is  closed  to  American  citizens.  Forts  have 
been  established  north  of  the  49uh  parallel,  a  road  has  been  opened  to 
Frazer's  river.  I  rejoice  at  the  prosperity  of  our  neighbors,  but  I  mourn 
at  its  being  built  up  at  our  expense,  through  the  supineness  of  our  troops, 
who  have  not  opened  the  road  to  our  citizens  through  our  own  territory, 
and  through  the  failure  of  congress  to  act. 


20 

Let  this  be  the  subject  of  an  earnest  and  vigorous  memorial. 

A  steam  mail  service  for  the  territory,  which  can  be  economically 
done,  it  being  an  established  and  conceded  fact  that  the  Sound  can  furnish 
the  coal ;  works  of  defence  for  the  Sound  and  the  Columbia  river  ;  in 
creased  appropriations  for  military  roads  ;  appropriations  for  public  build 
ings,  will  not,  of  course,  fail  to  receive  your  attention. 

Our  remoteness  from  the  seat  of  the  general  government  has  opera 
ted  prejudicially  to  our  interests.  Our  territory  seems  almost  a  terra  in 
cognita  at  home,  yet  it  is  situated  on  the  great  highway  of  the  road  of 
nations,  and  has  the  most  magnificent  and  capacious  harbors  and  road 
steads  either  on  the  Atlantic  or  Pacific  shore.  Its  coal,  its  fisheries,  its 
lumber,  its  gold,  its  extensive  and  rich  grazing  lands,  its  genial  climate, 
its  manufacturing  advantages,  and  its  soil,  which  yields  the  most  generous 
returns  to  labor,  present  a  combination  of  advantages  second  to  no  state 
or  territory  of  our  common  country.  West  of  the  Cascade  mountains, 
we  have  nearly  as  large  an  amount  of  rich  arable  land  -as  in  the  state  of 
New  York — land  which  requires  labor,  it  is  true,  to  yield  returns  from  its 
bosom,  for  our  magnificent  forests,  a  great  source  of  our  wealth,  have  first 
to  be  cleared  away.  The  Walla-Walle  valley,  situated  mostly  in  the  ter 
ritory  of  Washington,  surpasses  in  extent,  advantages,  climate  and  soil, 
that  of  the  great  Salt  Lake,  and  can  subsist  a  much  larger  population. 
West  of  the  Bitter  Root  mountains,  for  a  hundred  miles  in  breadth,  the 
soil  is  not  only  good,  but  equal  to  that  of  the  western  prairies.  The  land 
scape  in  June  a  carpet  of  flowers,  the  streams  lined  with  pine,  and  the 
country  well  watered.  The  remainder  of  the  interior  is  not  only  all 
of  it  a  good  grazing  country,  well  adapted  to  the  growing  of  wool,  as 
well  as  the  raising  of  stock,  but  large  tracts  included  in  the  Yakima  pur 
chase,  are  unsurpassed  for  roots  and  cereals.  It  is  ignorance  and  pre 
sumption  which  pronounces  this  country  fit  only  for  Indians.  Our  citizens 
who  have  the  experience  of  having  successfully  established  new  homes, 
have  pronounced  judgment  by  their  acts  in  seeking  again  new  homes  in 
the  interior.  They  deem  the  Yakima,  the  Walla-Walla,  the  Nez  Perce 
purchase  good  for  the  settler.  They  have  tried  to  go  there  for  years  be 
fore  the  purchase  was  made,  and  when  the  pur  chase  was  made,  they  at 
once  started  with  their  flocks  and  herds. 

Surveyor  General  Tilton,  in  his  last  annual  report  to  the  Commis 
sioner  of  the  General  Land  Office,  writes  as  follows :  "  Fine  bodies  of 
rich  land  have  been  explored  in  the  vallies  of  the  Chehalis  river,  which 
falls  into  the  Pacific  at  Gray's  Harbor. 

"  The  bottom  lands  of  the  Xesqually,  the  Puyallup,  the  Snohomish, 
White  and  Green  rivers,  the  waters  of  all  which  disembogue  in  Puget 


21 

Sound,  are  broad,   rich,  and  of  the  most  fertile  quality,  but  densely  tin> 
bered. 

"  East  of  the  Cascades,  and  upon  the  Columbia  river,  and  its  north* 
ern  tributaries,  are  also  large  bodies  of  excellent  lands. 

"  The  Cowlitz  river,  running  southwardly  and  falling  into  the  Co 
lumbia,  also  drains  fertile  lands,  and  has  many  of  the  oldest  settlers  in 
the  territory  among  its  prosperous  farmers. 

"All cereal  grains,  except  Indian  corn,  flourish  admirably  here,  the 
wheat  being  of  excellent  quality  and  abundant  in  quantity. 

"  If  a  permanent  peace  should  be  made  with  them  (several  powerful 
tribes  of  Indians  east  of  the  Cascade  mountains)  it  will  throw  open  a 
large  extent  of  excellent  country." 

That  there  are  valuable  gold  mines  in  the  interior,  requiring  only 
protection  to  our  people  to  the  growing  up  of  a  hardy,  mining  community, 
is  no  longer  a  matter  of  doubt.  The  efforts  making  by  the  Hudson  Bay 
Company,  to  control  and  monopolize  this  business  by  its  forts  and  roads 
in  British  Territory  near  our  line,  honorable  as  it  is  to  its  enterprise  and 
forecaste,  should  be  met  simply  by  protection  on  the  part  of  our  govern 
ment,  so  that  our  citizens,  through  their  individual  enterprise,  may  enter 
into  the  competition.  On  one  of  the  tributaries  of  the  Wenatchepan,  in-' 
eluded  in  the  Yakhna  purchase,  and  the  next  stream  north  of  the  main 
Yakima,  a  rich  deposit  of  dust  was  found  the  present  year,  yielding  twelve 
cents  to  the  pan. 

It  is  said  we  have  land  enough  west  of  the  Cascades  for  our  present 
purposes.  Why  then  do  our  people  want  to  go  eastward — are  the  people 
made  for  the  government,  or  the  government  for  the  people  ?  The  gov 
ernment  has  decided  the  matter  by  directing  treaties  to  Jbe  made,  by  estab 
lishing  surveys,  by  its  donation  laws. 

The  treaties  with  the  Indians  of  the  territory,  except  those  at  the 
head  of  the  Sound,  have  not  yet  been  confirmed.  I  will  urge  your  memo 
rializing  the  President  and  the  Senate  in  favor  of  the  confirmation  of  the 
treaties  with  the  Indians  who  have  remained  firm  in  their  allegiance,  as 
essential  to  the  peace  of  the  country,  and  that  you  also  memorialize  for  an 
authoritative  act  of  congress,  to  place  the  hostile  tribes  and  bands  on  res 
ervations,  on  the  basis  of  absolute  submission  to  the  mercy  and  justice  of 
the  government. 

The  want  of  proper  communications  with  the  states,  has  long  been  a 
serious  evil,  and  has  assumed  a  darker  magnitude  since  the  commencement 
of  our  Indian  troubles.  Congress  has  •  made  an  appropriation  for  a  mil 
itary  road  from  Fort  Benton  to  Fort  Walla-Walla,  and  under  its  appro 
priation,  the  portage  at  the  Cascades  has  been  made  a  good  wagon  road, 
and  a  trail  has  been  opened  over  the  Cascades  from  Fort  Steilacoom. 


22 

Post  routes  have  also  been  established  from  the  head  of  navigation  of  the 
Mississippi  to  Puget  Sound,  and  the  Columbia  valley.  Nearly  the  whole 
intervening  country  is  adapted  to  settlement,  either  on  the  part  of  farmers 
or  stock  raisers.  There  is  no  serious  scarcity  of  water  or  fuel.  Timber 
and  building  stone  is  either  to  be  found  almost  the  entire  distance,  or  can 
be  brought  to  a  practicable  vicinity  by  navigable  waters.  Nature  has 
pointed  out  the  route  as  one  over  which  commerce  must  pass — along 
which  settlements  must  spring  up. 

In  my  recent  trip  to  the  Blackfoot  country,  I  examined  with  great 
care  the  Cosur  d' Alene  trail  over  the  Bitter  Root  Mountains,  and  found 
it  to  be  entirely  practicable  for  a  rail  road,  with  grades  not  exceeding  60 
feet  to  the  mile — that  it  abridges  the  distance  over  the  route  by  Clark's 
Fork  75  miles,  and  lessened  the  cost  six  millions  of  dollars. 

The  distance  from  Saint  Paul  to  Puget  Sound  by  the  Coeur  d'  Alene 
trail,  and  over  the  Snoqualmie  Pass,  will  be  1,800  miles.  The  distance  to 
Vancouver,  1,789  miles. 

The  shortest  practicable  rail  road  route  from  the  Mississippi  to  ship 
navigation  on  the  Pacific,  is  through  our  territory,  and  the  equated  dis 
tance,  whether  the  port  of  Vancouver  or  the  Sound,  will,  in  round  num 
bers,  be  two  hundred  miles  shorter  than  on  the  route  of  the  32d  parallel, 
nine  hundred  miles  shorter  than  on  that  of  the  35th  parallel,  and  seven 
hundred  miles  than  that  by  the  South  Pass. 

When,  in  addition  to  the  greater  shortness  of  the  route,  it  be  con 
sidered  that  it  has  the  nearest  connections  with  Asia  and  Europe,  and 
that  the  latter  connection  can  be  made  almost  exclusively  by  water  on 
the  line  of  the  great  Lakes,  a  point  of  great  importance,  in  view  of  the 
greater  cheapness  of  freight  on  water  than  on  rail  road  lines,  the  claims 
of  the  northern  route  to  consideration  from  the  government  cannot  be  over 
looked. 

The  question  of  a  Pacific  Railroad  is  not  simply  one  of  domestic  inter 
communication  and  of  strengthening  the  fraternal  bonds  which  unite  us  as 
a  people,  it  is  the  question  of  a  struggle  for  the  commerce  of  the  world. 
Over  the  rail  must  not  only  pass  from  Asia  to  Europe  and  back  again, 
costly  and  perishable  articles,  but  on  this  route  the  great  bulk  of  Asiatic 
supplies  for  the  teeming  region  of  the  north-west,  where  the  territory  of 
to-day  is  the  populous  state  to-morrow,  where  the  wave  of  population  has 
nearly  reached  the  Red  River  of  the  north,  and  is  moving  rapidly  west 
ward.  The  Indian  war  over  in  this  territory,  the  reflex  tide  of  emigration 
setting  eastward  from  the  Pacific,  will  in  a  single  year  pass  over  our  inte 
rior  plains,  from  the  Walla  Walla  to  the  Spokane,  occupying  the  Yakima, 
and  our  miners  will  be  found  thence  to  the  49th  parallel. 

I  have  always  been  and  am  still  of  opinion  that  several  routes  should 


23 

go  on  simultaneously  to  the  Pacific,  and  that  equivalent  aid  should  be  gir- 
en  to  all  through  roads.  But  in  view  of  the  whole  force  applied  to  explo 
ration  having  of  late  been  thrown  upon  the  southern  route,  and  of  iti 
special  endorsement  by  the  department  having  charge  of  the  rail  road  ex 
plorations,  it  seems  to  me  the  time  has  come  for  you  to  memorialize  Con 
gress  to  make  grants  of  land  to  the  northern  route,  and  to  provide  for  the 
completion  of  the  explorations  connected  with  it. 

In  this,  my  last  annual  message  to  the  Legislative  Assembly,  I  am 
especially  reminded  of  the  duty  which  devolves  upon  me  of  acknowledging 
the  courtesy  and  kindness  which  has  ever  been  extended  to  me  by  the  sev 
eral  Legislative  Assemblies  of  the  territory,  and  by  the  constituency  which 
elected  them.  I  have  endeavored  faithfully  to  do  my  whole  duty,  and 
have  nothing  to  reproach  myself  with  as  regards  intention.  I  could  have 
wished  some  things  had  been  done  more  wisely,  and  that  my  whole  course 
had  been  guided  by  my  present  experience.  I  claim  at  your  hands  simply  the 
merit  of  patient  and  long  labor,  and  of  having  been  animated  with  the  fixed 
determination  cf  suffering  and  enduring  all  things  in  your  behalf.  Whether 
in  the  wilderness  contending  with  the  hostile  elements,  managing  and  con 
trolling  the  more  hostile  aborigines,  or  exploring  the  country,  or  at 
the  Capitol  struggling  with  disaffection,  the  subject  of  obloquy  and  abuse, 
I  have  had  no  end  but  my  duty,  no  reward  in  view  but  my  country's  good. 
It  is  for  you  to  judge  how  I  have  done  my  part,  and  for  the  Almighty 
Ruler  to  allot  to  each  man  his  desert. 

I  close  this  address  with  the  expression  of  the  confident  hope  that 
your  session  will  be  harmonious,  and  will  result  in  the  advancement  of  the 
begt  interests  of  our  territory  and  common  country. 

ISAAC  I.  STEYENS. 


ADJUTANT  GENERAL'S  REPORT. 


OFFICE  OF  THE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  YOL'S,  ) 
OLYMPIA,  W.  T.,  December  1st,  1856.      ) 

SIR  : — Herewith  I  have  the  honor  to  submit  papers  marked  A  B  and 
C,  exhibiting  the  strength  and  duration  of  the  volunteer  service  of  the  1st 
Regiment  of  three  month's  men  called  out  by  proclamation  of  acting  Gov 
ernor  Mason,  dated  14th  October,  1855  ;  and  also  the  2nd  Regiment  of 
six  month's  men  called  out  by  your  proclamation  of  January  23d,  1856. 

The  "remarks,"  in  the  tables,  will  show  in  what  manner  the  horses 
were  furnished  for  the  mounted  men. 

General  Orders  No's.  1,  2,  3,  4,  5,  6  and  t,  issued  from  this  office 
during  the  late  service  of  the  volunteers  of  Washington  Territory,  are  also 
submitted. 

Yery  Respectfully, 

JAMES  TILTON, 
Adjutant  General  W.  T.  Y.  forces. 
His  Excellency, 

ISAAC  I.   STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief  W.  T.  Y.  forces, 


26 


Estimate  of  the  number  of day 's  service  of  the  mounted  men 
of  the  1st  Regiment  of  W.  T.  Volunteers. 


Commissioned  Officers. 
Days  service 

Non-com 
officers. 
Days  ser 
vice. 

Privates. 

9 

a 

. 

09 

, 

Companies. 

Captains 

g 

c 
'5 

a 

•+S 

a 

£3   C 

d 

ta 

a 

<z> 

O 

*> 
fn 

OJ 

^ 

commanding. 

# 

« 

e 

eS 
<u 

o 

IM 

O 

to 

s? 

E 

O 

V 

*T 

tj 

£" 

p^ 

£ 

M 

s 

o> 
GQ 

o 
O 

£ 

o 

O  *" 

Company  *A,  Capt.  Strong,.  .  .  

61 

93 

93 

9? 

37? 

37? 

50 

4650 

5673 

"         fB,  Capt.  G.  Hays,  

91 

93 

93 

93 

372 

37? 

79 

7121 

8144 

."         4E,  Capt.  I.  Hays  

40 

92 

92 

9? 

27 

2245 

3257 

"         §F,  Capt.  Henness,  

fi3 

93 

93 

9? 

372 

37? 

52 

4755 

5778 

"         |K,  Capt.  Jackson,  

93 

93 

93 

186 

1400 

1865 

ITCowlitz  Rangers,  Capt.  Peers  

39 

81 

81 

81 

3?4 

28 

2268 

3159 

**Lewis  River  Raagers,  Capt.  JBratton,  

44 

118 

110 

103 

425 

39? 

31 

2149 

3297 

tf  Stevens  Guards,  Capt.  Biggins  

26 

50 

50 

79 

171 

13 

650 

1200 

^Spokane  Invincible^,  Capt.  Yantis,  

23 

SO 

r>0 

lOf 

200 

?00 

11 

550 

1150 

§§Puget  Sound  Rangers,  Capt.  Eaton  

3t; 

90 

10 

180 

240 

189 

24 

860 

1475 

||||Nez  Perce  Volunteers,  Chief  Spotted  Eagle 

70 

31 

69 

2139 

2170 

518i. 

884 

7651007 

3036 

2789 

405 

28787 

37168 

REMAKES: 

*Mustered  into  the  regular  service  and  furnished  their  own  horses. 

fMustered  into  the  regular  service  and  furnished  their  own  horses. 

^Furnished  their  own  horses. 

§Furnished    "        "        " 

HFurnished    "        "        " 

ITFurnished  "        "        " 

**Furnished  "        "        " 

tfHorses  furnished  by  Government. 

itHorses  partly  furnished  by  Government  and  partly  by  volnnteew, 

§§Farnished  their  own  horses. 

IJliFurnished  their  own  horseg  and  equipment*, 


27 


A — Continued. 


Estimate  of  the  number  of  days  service  of  the  Infantry 
force  of  the  1st  Regiment  W.  T.  Volunteers. 


Commissioned 
officers. 

Days  service. 

Non-com'd 
officers. 
Days  Ser 
vice. 

Privates. 

Companies. 

Captains 
commanding. 

o 

1 

W 

nc 

ja 
'3 

1 

O 

1 

0 

od 
I—  1 

^DQ 
+3 

3 

3 

t3 

00 

-(J 

i 

o 
bC 
C 

o 
cc 

.22 
"3 
c 
o 

0 

O 

d 
6 

o 
d 
55 

i 

3 

o 

6 

-(.} 

JK  2* 
O 

Company    C,  C 
*D,  C 
G,C 
M,  C 

I,  C 

J,  C 

Nis^ually  Ferry  Guards,  S 

/apt.  Goudy  

70 
55 
22 
75 
84 
29 
10 

94 
94 
92 
93 
101 
86 

94 
94 
92 
93 
101 
86 

94 
94 
92 
93 
101 
86 

305 
362 
341 
465 
404 
258 
75 

376 
376 
184 
360 
401 
172 

59 
44 
13 
63 
73 
21 
10 

4627 
3633 
920 
4867 
6909 
1236 
675 

5590 
4653 
1721 
5971 
8017 
1924 
750 

)apt.  Wallace  
apt.  McCorkW!  .  . 
'apt.  Hewitt  .... 

apt.  Ebey  

apt.  Plummer..  . 
erg't  Packwood,. 

34511560 

560 

560[ 

2210 

1869 

283 

22867 

28626 

NOTE. — Owing  to  several  of  the  officers  of  the  1st  Eegiment  continuing  in  service  in 
the  2nd,  some  of  the  Muster  rolls  have  not  yet  been  fully  perfected.  The  present  estimate 
will  vary  but  little  from  the  final  rolls  of  the  Regiment. 

•A  portion  of  company  D  did  duty  as  mounted  men  and  furnished  their  own  horses. 

Yery  Respectfully, 

JAMES  TILTON, 
Adft  Gen'l  W.  T.  Volunteer  forcet. 

ADJUTANT  GENERAL'S  OFFICE,    )  , 

OLTMPIA,  Dec.  1,  1858. 


28 
B 


Estimate  of  the  number  of  days  service  of  the  mounted  men 
of  the  2d  Regiment  of  W.  T.  Volunteers. 


Non-Com'd 

Commissioned 

officers. 

Privates. 

officers. 

Days  service. 

Days  Ser 

vice. 

,2 

02 

CO 

. 

0 

_  » 

r-r 

"S 

q 

ft 

OT 

o 

*p 

o3  c3 

Companies. 

Captains 

48 

tn 

.s 

^  ^ 

*§ 

Q 

a 

0 

commanding. 

1 

o3 

"5 

9 

C3   O 

d 

0 

A 
o 

IM 
O 

6 

QQ 

• 

rl   ^ 

O  bo 

K 

0 

*3 

1-3 

CO 

O 

^5 

ft 

Company    C,  Capt.  Henness, 

67 

202 

202 

202 

808 

734 

54 

8,325 

10,473 

*D,  Capt.  Achilles, 

44 

84 

204 

61 

569 

590 

32 

4,100 

5,608 

"           J,  Capt.  Miller... 

40 

207 

207 

207 

828 

828 

26 

4,145 

6,422 

"           K,  Capt.  Goff.  .  .  . 

101 

217 

217 

217 

888 

868 

90 

10,372 

12,759 

fM,  Capt.  Chase,.. 

53 

143 

143 

143 

344 

.  48 

45 

6,160 

6,981 

"         i'N,  Capt.  Richards 

74 

93 

93 

93 

372 

372 

63 

5,859 

6,882 

Wash.  Mount'd  Rifles,  Capt.  Maxon. 

95 

63 

214 

214 

806 

856 

6? 

13,258 

15,406 

Clarke  Co.  Rangers,  Capt.  Kelley.  . 

81 

122 

104 

122 

443 

220 

70 

6,542 

6,553 

§Pioneer  Company,  Capt.  Hicks,.  .  . 

52 

31 

31 

64 

103 

14 

404 

685 

Walla  Walla  Company,  Capt.  Ford. 

29 

111 

86 

62 

25 

775 

1,034 

584 

1,294 

1,501 

1,352 

5,102 

4,619 

487 

58,935 

72,803 

REMARKS: 

*Company  D  was  first  commanded  by  Capt.  Achilles,  and  second  by  1st  Lieutenant 
PoTvell.  The  horses  used  for  the  mounted  force  were  partly  furnished  by  the  Government 
and  partly  by  the  volunteers. 

tCompany  M  was  composed  of  10  white  men  and  43  Nez  Perce  Indians,  famishing 
their  own  hordes. 

^Company  N  was  first  commanded  by  Capt.  Richards,  and  second  by  Capt.  Williams. 

§A  portion  of  the  Pioneer  company  after  the  march  of  Lieut.  Col.  Shaw's  command 
into  the  Walla  Walla  country,  did  duty  as  mounted  men  west  of  the  Cascades. 


29 

B —  Continued. 

Estimate   of  the   number  of  days   service  of  the  Infantry  force  of  2nd 
Regiment  W.   T.   Volunteers. 


Commissioned 
officers. 

Days  service. 

Non-Com'd 
officers. 
Days  Ser 
vice. 

Privates. 

Companies. 

Captains 

.2 

£ 

tn 
d 

00 

"B 

-^  a 

"a 

•3s 

•9 
fl 

00 

d 

i 

0 

1 

<u 

It 

commanding. 

M 

a 

a 

1 

ff 
v 

£3   o 

• 
m 

I 

O 

0 
0 

at 

II 

& 

O 

3 

3 

02 

O 

£< 

O 

•^ 

Company     A,  Capt.  Lander  

53 

84 

130 

183 

725 

732 

4? 

6,765 

8,61 

*B,  Capt.  Hays  

183 

183 

183 

907 

732 

41 

4,492 

6,68 

fE,  Capt.  Riley,  

21 

95 

159 

19 

1,769 

2,02 

P,  Capt.  Swindal  

40 

182 

173 

182 

345 

35 

4,471 

4,35 

:J:G,  Capt.  Van  Bokelin, 

55 

188 

188 

188 

752 

752 

44 

6,853 

8,92 

H,  Capt.  Peabody,.  .  . 

42 

183 

183 

183 

549 

183 

31 

5,067 

6,34 

§1,    Capt.  Howe  

36 

183 

183 

183 

732 

732 

24 

4,279 

6,2£ 

L,  Capt.  Warbass,.  .  . 

91 

106 

106 

106 

424 

424 

76 

5,835 

7,00 

Train  Guard,  Capt.  Shead,  

47 

147 

147 

147 

214 

366 

36 

3,371 

4,3£ 

Pioneer  Company,  Capt.  White  

40 

122 

143 

127 

467 

418 

32 

3,666 

4,93 

Nisqually  Ferry  Guards,  

9 

147 

8 

747 

8SJ 

60,45 

485 

1,473 

1,595 

1,482 

5,262 

4,339 

388 

46,315 

REMARKS: 

Many  of  the  officers  commanding  companies  in  the  2nd  Regiment  living  at  a  great 
distance  from  the  office  of  the  Adjutant  General,  and  the  late  period  at  which  the  service 
closed,  has  rendered  it  impossible  to  get  in  the  final  rolls.  But  the  estimates  having  been 
made  from  the  monthly  rolls  on  file,  will  approximate  very  nearly  to  the  general  result. 

*Company  B  was  commanded  first  by  Capt.  Hays,  second  by  Capt.  Babbeson,  and  lait 
by  Capt.  Burntrager. 

fCompany  E  was  first  commanded  by  Capt.  Biley  and  second  by  1st  Lieutenant  Cole, 
^Company  G  was  first  commanded  by  Capt.  Van  Bokkelin  and  second  by  Capt.  Smalley. 
§Company  I  was  first  commanded  by  Capt.  Howe  and  second  by  Capt.  Beam. 


so 

B- —  Continued. 
Indian-  Auxiliaries. 


Commissioned 
Officers. 

Days  service. 

Privates. 

Companies. 

Commanding 
Officers: 

« 

B 

* 

1 

PS 

Captains. 

1st 
Lieutenants. 

a 
o 

s 

:    CM 
0 

0 
!2J 

0 

O 

E 

CO 

• 

s 

Q 

?* 

l| 

ol 

<1 

4,234 
258 
660 
205 

5,257 

Snohomish  Chiefs, 

Sqnaxon,  Lieut.  Gos 
Cnehalis,  Capt.  Ford 
Cowlitz,  Pierre  Cha 

Pat  Kanim.  .  . 
'  John  Taylor.  . 
nell  

82 
15 
17 
9 

116 
109 

23 

80 
14 

16 

8 

4,118 
230 
560 
96 

rlegj  

123 

223 

28 

118 

5,004 

V-ery  Respectfully, 

JAMES  TILTON, 
Adft  Gen' I  W.  T.  Volunteers. 

G-ENEKAL'S^  OFFICE,"  V 
OLYMPIA,  Dec.  1,  1856.      f 


51 


C 


Officers,  Rank,  and  Number  of  days  Servict. 


No.  of  Commissioned 

No.  of  Non-com'cl 

« 

| 

& 

B 

d 

o 

officers  of  Go's. 

officers  of  CO'B. 

2 

B> 

(^ 

a 

O 

1 

s 

S 

c 
• 

0 

+3 

1 

B 
& 

V 

• 
• 

| 

T3 

«t-c 
0 

6 

smmissary. 

ays  service. 

eutenant  Co 

lys  service. 

irgeons. 

8 

1 

Ui 

o 

O 

No  of. 
Companies 

No.  of 
t  Lieutenan 

No.  of 
id  Lieutenan 

No.  of 
Sergeants. 

No.  of 
Corporals. 

No.  of 
Musicianfi. 

"5 

ta 

0 

q 

h3 

P 

03 

fc 

i-H 

O* 

1 

112 

1 

79 

4 

322 

4 

327 

17 

18 

18 

62 

56 

T 

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ary  the  agg 


ffi 


Comp 


No.  of 
Musician 


,  No. 
Corpo 


of 

nts 


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fcfl  t- 


N 
nd  Lie 


N 
ieutenan 


Yery  Respectfully, 
JAMES  TILTON, 
Ad  ft  Gen.  W.  T.  Vol.  forces. 


GENERAL    ORDERS. 


ADGT.  GENERAL'S  OFFICE, 
Olympia,  W.  T.,  Nov.  2,  1855. 

GENERAL  ORDERS  No.  1. 


1st.  The  Company  D,  Capt.  Wallace,  raised  and  organized  in  Steil- 
acoom,  is  accepted  and  mustered  into  service,  and  will  co-operate  with  the 
garrison  at  Fort  Steilacoom  when  an  expedition  against  the  enemy  is 
made. 

2d.  The  company  of  mounted  rangers  of  Mound  Prairie,  Capt. 
Henness,  is  accepted,  and  will  be  mustered  in  upon  rendition  of  their  mus 
ter  and  descriptive  rolls. 

3d.  Capt.  Hewitt's  company  of  volunteers  from  Seattle,  being  now 
upon  an  expedition  against  the  enemy,  will  be  placed  upon  the  rolls  of 
this  office,  as  in  service,  upon  rendition  of  their  muster  and  descriptive 
rolls. 

4th.  Captains  or  other  officers  commanding  companies,  will  keep 
this  office  informed  of  their  movements,  and  report  as  often  as  possible  all 
information  they  may  obtain  relative  to  the  movements  of  the  enemy,  ~&c. 

Commanding  officers  of  companies  will  report  to  this  office  the  names 
of  any  officer,  non-commissioned  officer  or  private  who  may  distinguish 
himself  by  any  remarkable  gallantry,  or  extraordinary  good  service. 

5th.  Should  any  officer,  non-commissioned  officer  or  private,  refuse  a 
detail  for  an  expedition,  or  misbehave  in  action  with  the  enemy,  such  per 
son  will  be  reported  to  this  office  by  the  commanding  officer  of  the  com 
pany,  or  detachment,  and  receive  a  dishonorable  discharge  from  the  ser 
vice. 

6th.     Any  habitual  neglect  of  guard  or  fatigue  duty,  or  general  ab 
sence  from   roll  call  —  inattention  upon  post,  and  general  disobedience  of 
lawful  orders  from  superior  officers,  will  be  also  reported  at  the  option  of 
officers  commanding  companies  or  detachments. 
5 


34 

tth.  An  intelligent  and  gallant  citizen  soldiery  must  see  the  abso 
lute  necessity  of  discipline,  to  make  courage  efficient — to  insure  success 
against  the  enemy,  and  make  the  duty  equal  upon  all. 

(Signed,)  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adj't  General,  W.  T.  Volunteer*. 
By  order  of  the  Acting  Governor. 


ADJUTANT  GENERAL'S  OFFICE,  } 

Olympia,  W.  T.,  Nov.  13,  1855.          f 

GENERAL   ORDERS,  No.  2. 

1st.  Edward  Lander,  of  Olympia,  W.  T.,  is  appointed  Aid  to  the 
Acting  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief,  with  the  rank  of  Lieut.  Col. 
of  the  volunteer  forces  of  Washington  Territory,  now  in  the  field. 

Lieut.  Col.  Lander  will  make  a  tour  of  inspection,  visiting  the  vari 
ous  companies  of  volunteers  and  rangers  now  in  the  field,  or  in  the  garri 
son,  and  report  to  this  office  upon  their  condition,  efficiency,  and  require 
ments. 

2d.  Dr.  Mathew  P.  Burns  is  commissioned  as  surgeon  of  company 
B,  from  date  of  company  organization. 

3d.  Dr.  R.  M.  Bigelow  is  commissioned  as  surgeon  to  company  D, 
and  will  report  for  duty  to  Capt.  Wallace,  Company  D. 

4th.  Dr.  Gallio  K.  Willard  is  commissioned  as  surgeon  of  the  first 
regiment  of  Washington  Territory  Volunteers,  and  will  attend  profession 
ally  to  such  of  the  volunteers  and  rangers  now  in  service  as  may  apply  to 
him. 

5th.  A.  B.  Stuart  is  commissioned  as  commissary  of  subsistence  for 
the  post  of  Olympia,  and  will  furnish  rations  for  all  volunteers  and  rang 
ers  at  the  post  of  Olympia,  or  those  temporarily  there  on  duty. 

6th.  Company  A,  Capt.  Wm.  Strong,  having  been  mustered  into 
service  at  Fort  Vancouver,  has  marched  to  join  Brig  Gen.  Rains  in  the 
Yakima  country,  and  will  receive  orders  from  Brig.  Gen.  Rains  or  the  offi 
cer  commanding  the  expedition  from  Fort  Vancouver. 

7th.  Company  E.,  Capt.  Isaac  Hays,  has  been  organized  and  ac 
cepted  into  service,  and  will,  for  the  present,  occupy  the  country  adjacent 
to  Chamber's  Prairies  and  remain  in  readiness  for  marching  orders,  should 
the  exigencies  of  the  war  require  a  forward  movement. 

8th.  Company  G,  Capt.  McCorkle  of  Cowlitz  county,  is  mustered 
into  service,  and  will  guard  the  passes  of  Lewis  river,  and  intercept  all 


36 

communication  between  the  hostile  tribes  east  of  the  Cascades,  and  th« 
Indians  inhabiting  the  country  west  of  the  mountains. 

9th.  Company  H,  Capt.  Hewett,  having  transmitted  his  muster  and 
descriptive  rolls  to  this  office,  will  establish  a  post  at  the  forks  of  White 
and  Green  rivers,  and  place  himself  in  communication  with  Capt.  M. 
Maloney,  TJ.  S.  A.,  commanding  combined  regular  and  volunteer  forces 
at  camp  Montgomery. 

10th.  Company  I,  Capt.  Ebey,  is  accepted  into  service,  and  will 
maintain  its  position  at  Port  Townsend — furnish  a  guard  at  the  mouth  of 
the  Snohomish  river,  to  prevent  any  of  the  enemy  from  descending  the 
river,  or  having  any  communication  with  the  friendly  Indians  inhabiting 
the  shores  of  the  Sound. 

llth.  The  success  achieved  at  the  engagement  of  White  river  by 
the  gallantry  and  constancy  of  the  troops  under  the  command  of  Capt. 
Gilmore  Hays,  company  B,  Puget  Sound  mounted  volunteers,  1st.  regi 
ment  W.  T.  volunteers,  and  the  Regulars  of  the  4th  U.  S.  infantry,  com 
manded  by  Lieut.  Slaughter,  being  detachments  from  the  command  of 
Capt.  M.  Maloney,  4th  infantry,  U.  S.  A.,  has  inspired  a  hope  that  any 
further  accession  of  tribes  to  the  enemy  is  checked,  and  the  war  on  the 
western  side  of  the  Cascades  is  rapidly  approaching  the  defensive  on  the 
part  of  the  savages. 

12th.  The  forces  now  in  the  field  are  deemed  sufficient  to  pursue 
the  enemy  and  follow  up  the  success  already  obtained.  It  is,  therefore, 
expressly  enjoined  upon  all  officers  commanding  companies  or  detachments, 
to  prevent  all  private  warfare  upon  Indians,  as  unauthorized  persons  may 
drive  into  hostility  tribes  now  friendly  or  wavering. 

Officers  and  soldiers  will  also  bear  in  mind  that  Indians  now  friendly 
or  indifferent  may  be  rendered  hostile  by  careless  conduct,  and  while  the 
gallantry  of  the  volunteers  will  lead  them  to  look  with  contempt  upon 
the  number  of  their  foes,  they  will  consider  that  isolated  familes  may.  suf 
fer  from  any  recklessness  on  the  part  of  those  who  are  so  courageously 
defending  them. 

(Signed,)  JAMES  TILTOK, 

Adg't  Gen.  W.  T.  Y. 
By  order  of  the  Acting  Governor,  ) 
and  Commander-in- Chief.         ) 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  CAMP  W.  T.  VOLUNTEERS,  ) 

Walla-Walla  Valley,  W.  T.,  Dec.  31,  1855.      j 

GENERAL  ORDERS,  A. 

The  inhabitants  of  Walla  Walla  county  are  called  upon  to  enroll 
themselves  for  the  protection  of  themselves  and  families,  and  for  such  aid 
as  they  may  be  able  to  render  in  prosecuting  the  existing  war  against  the 
Indians. 

Col.  B.  F.  Shaw,  of  the  militia  of  Washington  Territory,  is  assigned 
to  the  command  of  the  military  district  embraced  in  Walla  Walia  county, 
and  will  see  that  the  inhabitants  are  duly  organized. 

When  the  settlers  and  friendly  Indians  are  moved  to  the  place  al 
ready  designated  for  their  winter  camp,  he  will  have  such  defensive  works 
thrown  up  as  may  be  necessary. 

Col.  Shaw  will  give  to  the  same  end,  the  necessary  directions  to  the 
settlers  on  the  Spokane,  and  at  Colville,  and  at  Colville  valley. 

It  is  believed  that  this  call  will  be  responded  to  by  every  inhabitant 
in  the  county.  The  inhabitants  will  thus  render  aid  in  prosecuting  the 
war,  whilst  protecting  themselves. 

The  settlers  in  this  valley  will  be  called  upon  to  act  as  their  own 
guards.  It  is  believed  that,  with  the  force  which  will  remain  in  the  valley 
till  offensive  operations  are  resumed,  they  are  entirely  competent  to  per 
form  this  service. 

Col.  Shaw  will  co-operate  with  the  force  from  Oregon  in  the  defense 
of  the  Walla  Walla  valley,  or  in  the  offensive  operations  against  the  In 
dians.  The  importance  of  the  entire  harmony  and  unity  of  action  be 
tween  the  two  territories  in  the  prosecution  of  the  existing  war  cannot  be 
too  strongly  impressed  upon  the  minds  of  all. 

Sidney  S.  Ford,  jr.,  is  commissioned  as  captain,  and  Green  McCafferty 
as  first  Lieutenant  of  the  volunteers  from  Washington,  in  the  existing 
war  against  the  Indians,  and  will  report  to  Col.  Shaw  for  duty. 
(Signed,)  JAMES  DOTY, 

Lt.  Col.  Adj't. 
By  order  of  the  Commander-in-Chief. 


37 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  W.  T.  VOLUNTEERS,  ) 

Walla  Walla  Valley,  Dec.  31,  1855.      ) 

GENERAL  ORDERS,  B. 

1st.  Wm.  Craig  is  appointed  Aid  to  the  Commander-in-Chief,  during 
the  existing  Indian  war,  to  rank  as  Lieut.  Col. 

2d.  The  Nez  Perces  volunteers,  who  have  formed  a  portion  of  the 
force  from  Washington,  operating  against  the  hostile  Indians,  will  return 
to  the  Nez  Perce  country,  and  there  be  mustered  out  of  the  service,  by 
Lieut.  Col.  Craig,  who  will  send  a  copy  of  his  muster  rolls  and  descriptive 
lists  to  the  office  of  the  Adg't.  General  at  Olympia. 

3d.  Especial  thanks  are  due  the  Nez  Perce  volunteers  for  their 
cheerful  obedience  to  orders,  and  exemplary  deportment,  whilst  in  the 
service  of  the  territory. 

4th.  Lt.  Col.  Craig  will  take  the  necessary  measures  for  the  protec 
tion  of  the  Nez  Perce  tribes  of  Indians  against  any  hostile  efforts 
from  the  tribes  in  arms,  and  will  call  upon  Col.  B.  P.  Shaw  in  command 
of  the  military  district  of  Walla  Walla  for  aid  and  supplies. 

5th.  It  being  necessary  for  the  Commander-in-Chief  to  go  to  the 
settlements  without  delay,  Lt.  Col.  Doty  will  assume  the  command  of  the 
Walla  Walla  battalion,  consisting  of  the  Steven's  Guards,  and  Spokane 
Invincibles.  They  will  be  moved  to  the  Dalles,  as  soon  as  the  weather 
moderates,  and  there  be  mustered  out  of  the  service. 

6th.  The  Commander-in-Chief  returns  his  thanks  to  the  battalion 
for  the  alacrity  with  which  they  have  obeyed  his  orders  and  discharged 
their  duty,  for  their  constancy  and  manliness  in  the  rapid  movement  which 
they  made  from  the  Spokane  to  this  valley,  in  bad  weather  and  in  an  in 
clement  season — a  movement  began  and  nearly  half  accomplished  with 
the  certain  knowledge  that  a  large  force  of  hostile  Indians  was  to  be  met 
in  this  valley,  and  no  expectation  that  aid  was  at  hand,  and  would  be  ex 
tended  in  season. 

7th.  But  aid  was  at  hand,  and  the  Commander-in-Chief  would  do 
injustice  to  his  own  feelings  and  those  of  the  men  of  his  immediate  com 
mand,  if,  in  this  General  Order,  he  did  not  acknowledge  the  services  of 
the  gallant  volunteers  of  Oregon,  who  successfully  met  in  arms  in  this  val 
ley,  the  combined  forces  of  the  hostile  Indians  at  the  time  he  was  moving 
from  the  Spokane  to  the  Nez  Perce  country. 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Com.-in-Chief. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  ) 

February  1st,   1856.       ) 

GENERAL  ORDERS  No.  3. 

1st.  The  existing  organization  of  volunteers  is  disbanded,  and  Cap 
tains  of  companies  will  make  the  necessary  reports  to  the  Adjutant  Gen 
eral's  office  at  Olympia,  as  early  as  practicable. 

2d.  No  troops  will  be  accepted  for  service  except  such  as  are  raised 
for  six  months  and  subject  to  the  orders  of  the  Executive  for  the  general 
defense  of  the  territory.  The  orders  recently  issued  for  the  raising  of 
troops  for  the  defense  of  particular  localities  are  hereby  revoked. 

3d.    The  citizens  of  the  territory  are  urged  to  enroll   themselves  as 
rapidly  as  possible.     Supplies  and  transportation  will  be  in  readiness. 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  W.  T.,  and  Com  -in-Chief. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  OLYMPIA,  W.  T.  ) 

February  25,  1856.      J 

GENERAL    ORDERS  No.  4. 

1st.  The  2d  regiment  Washington  Territory  Volunteers,  called  into 
the  service  of  the  United  States,  against  the  Yakima  and  other  hostile 
Indian  tribes,  will  be  organized  into  three  battalions,  to  be  designated  res 
pectively  the  Northern,  the  Central  and  Southern  battalions. 

2d.  The  Northern  battalion  includes  company  G,  commanded  by 
Capt.  Van  Bokelin,  company  I,  Capt.  Howe,  a  detachment  of  company 
H,  Captain  Peabody,  and  will  be  commanded  by  a  Major,  to  be  elected 
by  the  command  upon  its  concentration. 

3d.  It  will  receive  supplies  and  transportation  from  quartermaster 
and  commissary  Robinson,  and  move  immediately  up  the  river  to  the  Sno- 
qualmie  Falls. 

4th.  The  Central  battalion,  commanded  by  Major  Gilmore  Hays, 
will  comprise  company  B,  Captain  Rabbison,  company  C,  Captain  Hen- 
ness  (Mounted  Rangers;)  the  train  guard,  Captain  Shead,  and  the  Pio 
neer  company,  commanded  by  Captain  White,  with  detachment  of  Scouts, 
commanded  by  Capt.  Swindal  of  company  F,  and  be  supplied  by  quar 
termaster  and  commissary  Weed,  at  the  post  of  Oljmpia. 


5th.  This  battalion  will  march  to  the  Muckleshoot  Prairie — estab 
lishing  block-houses  at  the  Yelm  Prairie,  at  Montgomery's  Station,  and 
the  crossing  of  the  Puyallup  river;  and  forming  a  junction  with  the  Reg 
ulars,  erect  a  depot,  hospital  and  block-house  at  or  near  the  forks  of  White 
and  Green  rivers. 

6th.  The  Southern  battalion,  commanded  by  Lieutenant  Col.  Shaw, 
will  organize  from  the  companies  now  forming  by  Captains  Maxon,  Achil 
les,  Higgins  and  Pearson,  upon  the  Columbia  river,  and  will  march  to  the 
Walla- Walla  Valley  as  soon  as  possible. 

7th.  The  Southern  battalion  will  be  supplied  by  quartermaster  and 
commissary  Hathaway,  at  Fort  Vancouver. 

8th.  Officers,  commanding  battalions,  will  appoint  adjutants  for 
their  commands. 

9th.  The  battalion  adjutant  will  conduct  the  military  correspond 
ence,  make  the  necessary  reports  to  this  office,  and  keep  the  papers  of  the 
battalion. 

10th.  Quartermasters  and  commissaries  will  make  their  reports  to 
quartermaster  and  commissary  general  Miller,  at  Olympia. 

llth.  Lieutenant  Colonel  Lander,  commanding  post  at  Seattle,  will 
organize  company  A,  of  the  2d  regiment  of  Washington  Territory  Vol 
unteers,  with  as  many  friendly  Indians  as  may  report  to  him,  and  make 
war  upon  the  hostile  savages  infesting  the  forests  between  Elliott's  Bay, 
and  the  country  lying  adjacent  to  Seattle;  and  co-operate  with  the  naval 
forces  now  in  the  bay  of  Seattle,  and  will  be  supplied  by  Quartermaster 
and  Commissary  F.  Matthias. 

12th.  Jared  S.  Hurdand  H.  R.  Crosbie,  Esq.,  are  appointed  Aids  to 
the  Commander-in-Chief,  with  the  rank  of  Lieutenant  Colonel. 

13th.  Eustis  Huger  is  appointed  Acting  Adjutant  to  the  2d  regi 
ment  W.  T.  Volunteers,  with  the  rank  of  1st  lieutenant. 

14th.  Sidney  S.  Ford,  jr.,  is  appointed  a  Captain,  and  attached  for 
the  special  service  of  organizing  a  force  of  friendly  Indians  of  the  Cheha- 
lis  and  Cowlitz  tribes  for  operation  upon  the  Puyallup. 

15th.  Captain  C.  W.  Riley,  with  the  force  raised  in  Steilacoom,  will 
build  a  fort  at  "Lone  Tree  Point/7  north  of  the  mouth  of  the  Puyallup, 
and  occupy  that  post  until  further  orders, ' 

16th.  Warren  Gove  is  appointed  Quartermaster  and  Commissary  at 
the  post  of  Steilacoom. 

l?th.  A.  H.  Robie  is  appointed  Quartermaster  and  Commissary  of 
subsistence  at  the  Dalles. 

18th.  G.  K.  Willard  to  be  surgeon  and  purveyor  of  medicine  and 
medical  stores  at  head  quarters. 


40 

19th.     M.  P.  Burns  is  appointed  a  surgeon  in  the  3d  regiment,  and 
ordered  for  duty  with  the  Central  Battalion. 

20th.    Dr.  R.  M.  Bigelow,  surgeon  for  the  Northern  Battalion. 
21st.    The  officer  commanding  the  Southern  Battalion  will  appoint  a 
surgeon  for  his  command,  and  report  his  name  to  this  office,  that  a  com 
mission  may  issue. 

22d.     Edward  Furste  is  appointed  Chief  Clerk  to  the  Quartermaster 
and  Commissary  General. 

23d.    James  Roberts  is  appointed  Military  Clerk  to  the  Commander- 
in-Chief. 

24th.     In  all  service  of  combined  volunteer  and  Indian  military  forces, 
the  military  officer  will  take  command  of  the  whole. 

25th.     All  officers  commanding  are  requested  to  make  reports  to  this 
office  as  frequently  as  practicable. 

(Signed,)  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adg't.  Gen.  W.  T.  Y.  forces. 
By  order  of  the  Governor  and ) 
Commander-in-Chief.  j 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  OLYMPIA,  W.  T.    ) 
April  20,  1856.  ) 

SUPPLEMENT  TO  GENERAL  ORDERS,  No.  4. 

• 

1st.  B.  F.  Shaw  is  elected  Lieutenant  Col.  of  2d  regt.  W.  T.  Vol 
unteers,  and  will  assume  command  of  the  Central  and  Southern  battal 
ions. 

2d.  Edward  Gibson  is  appointed  extra  aid  to  the  Commander-in- 
Chief. 

4th.  First  Lt.  W.  W.  DeLacy  is  appointed  Adjutant  to  the  South 
ern  battalion. 

5th.  Humphrey  Hill  is  appointed  Adjutant  to  the  Northern  bat 
talion. 

6th.     B.  F.  Ruth  is  appointed  Adjutant  to  the  Central  battalion. 

7th.    Justin  Millard,  appointed  a  Surgeon  in  the   2d  regiment  W. 

T.  Y. 

8th.     Christopher  C.  Pagett  is   appointed  Ass't.  Qr.  M.  and  Com 
missary,  and  is  assigned  to  duty  with  Capt.  Warbass'  company. 
9th.     Albert  Eggers  is  appointed  Ass't.  Surgeon. 


10th.     U.  G.  Warbass  is  appointed  Ass't.  Surgeon. 

11  th.  Officers  elected  by  co.  L,  2d  regiment  (Walla  Walla  county) 
Henri  M.  Chase,  Captain;  Y.  L.  LaFontaiiie,  1st  Lt. ;  Louis  Rabion,  2d 
Lieutenant. 

12th.  Company  K,  (Mounted  Rifles)  Francis  M.  P.  Golf,  Captain; 
Israel  Hedges,  1st.  Lieut.;  Thomas  Waite,  2d  Lieut. 

13th.  Co.  J,  (Mounted  Rifles)  Bluford  Miller,  Capt.;  Anthony  W. 
Pressly,  1st.  Lieut.;  Andrew  Sheppard,  2d  Lieut. 

14th.  Co.  M,  (Lewis  county)  Edward  Warbass,  Capt.;  John  W. 
Anderson,  1st.  Lieut.;  John  B.  Bouchard,  2d.  Lieut. 

loth.  Clark  Co.  Rangers,  Win.  Kelly,  Captain;  John  D.  Biles,  1st. 
Lieutenant;  Patrick  Ahem,  2d.  Lieut. 

16th.  Daniel  Smalley  is  elected  Captain  of  co.  G,  vice  J.  J.  H. 
Tan  Bokelin,  elected  Major  Northern  Battalion,  2d  regiment. 

17th.  Arthur  A.  Denny  is  elected  1st.  Lieut,  of  co.  A,  2d  regiment, 
vice  H.  H.  Peixotto,  resigned. 

18th.     J.  Q    Cole  elected  1st  Lieut,  co.  F. 

19th.     John  Brady  1st.  Lt.  co.  B,  vice  Tan  Ogle,  resigned. 

20th.     Wm.  Temple,    2d  Lieut,  co.  B,   vice  Win.  Marth,   resigned, 

21st.  Geo,  W.  Ebey  2d  Lt.  co.  G,  vice  Daniel  Smalley,  elected  Cap 
tain. 

(Signed)  JAMES  TILTOX. 

Adg't  Gen.  W.  T.  V.  forces. 

By  order  of  the  Governor  and ) 
Cominauder-m-Chief. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  OLYMPIA,  W.  T.    ) 
August  — ,  1956.          ) 

GENERAL   ORDERS,  No.  5. 

The  Corarnanrler-in-Chief,  for  himself  and  the  inhabitants  of  Wash 
ington  Territory,  desires  me  to  express  to  Lieut.  Col.  Shaw,  the  gallant 
officers  and  men  of  the  right  wing  of  the  2d  regiment,  and  the  officers  and 
men  of  the  commrmds  of  Major  Lay  ton,  of  Oregon  Territory,  and  Capt. 
Goff,  of  Washington  Territory,  his  high  appreciation  of  their  late  brill 
iant  and  successful  achievements  at  the  battles  of  Grand  Roude  and  Burnt 
River. 

The  intelligence  of  these  successes  has  given  the  highest  gratification 
6 


42 

to  those  of  their  fellow-citizens  of  the  territory,  who  are  well  aware  the 
blessings  of  a  permanent  peace  with  the  savages  can  be  obtained  only 
through  such  vigorous  and  decisive  blows  as  those  inflicted  at  the  Grand 
Roude  and  Burnt  River. 

Orders  are  issued  to  raise  200  men  to  strengthen  the  command  of 
Lieut.  Col.  Shaw.  Ample  supplies  are  being  collected,  and  nothing  will 
be  left  undone  to  furnish  every  support  to  the  brave  and  gallant  territorial 
forces,  whose  energetic,  active,  and  intelligent  officers  are  so  ably  secon 
ded  by  gallant  and  willing  men. 

With  the  assurance  to  the  right  wing  of  the  2d  regiment,  that  its 
patriotic  and  vigorous  services  are  fully  understood  at  head  quarters,  and 
that  the  present  and  future  citizens  of  Washington  territory  will  fully  ap 
preciate  them,  and  perpetuate  their  memory  in  history. 

(Signed)  JAMES  TILTON, 

W.  T.  Volunteers. 
By  order  of  the  Governor,  ) 

and  Commander-in-Chief.  j 


REPORT  OF  LT.  COL.  SHAW. 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  CAMP  ON  MILL  CREEK,    ) 
July  24th,  1856.          ) 

JAMES  TILTON,  ESQ., 

Adj't  Gen.  W.  T.  V.,  Olympia, 
SIR: 

In  my  letter  of  12th  inst.,  I  announced  my  intention  of  making  a 
scout  towards  the  Grand  Ronde  as  soon  as  I  could  make  the  necessary 
arrangements  for  placing  this  post  in  security  during  my  absence. 

The  trails  toward  it  were  reconnoitered,  and  an  excellent  guide  se 
cured — "Captin  John," — a  Nez  Perce  chief. 

I  started  at  dark  on  the  evening  of  the  14th  inst.,  with  the  majority 
of  the  command,  consisting  of  six  companies,  viz:  Lt.  Williams,  Lieut. 
Wait,  Capt.  Miller,  Capt.  Henness  and  Major  Maxon,  in  all  160  men  and 
officers,  besides  the  pack  train  with  ten  days'  rations.  We  marched  all 
night,  so  as  to  get  into  the  mountains  before  daylight,  so  that  the  dust 
could  not  be  discovered.  We  took  a  trail  only  travelled  by  Indians,  and 
but  little  frequented  by  them  lately.  We  arrived  in  the  Grand  Ronde 
Valley  on  the  evening  of  the  16th,  and  camped  on  a  branch  of  the  Grand 


43 

Ronde  river  in  the  timber,  sending  spies  in  advance,  who  returned  and  T&- 
ported  no  fresh  sign. 

On  the  morning  of  the  17th,  leaving  Major  Blankenship  of  the  cen 
tral,  and  Capt.  Miller  of  the  southern  battalions,  assisted  by  Capt.  De 
Lacy  to  take  up  the  line  of  march  for  the  main  valley,  I  proceeded  ahead 
to  reconnoitre,  accompanied  by  Major  Maxon,  Michael  Marchraean,  Capt. 
John,  and  Dr.  Burns.  After  proceeding  about  five  miles,  we  ascended  a 
knoll  in  the  valley,  from  which  we  discovered  dust  arising  along  the  timber 
of  the  river.  I  immediately  sent  Major  Maxon  and  Captain  John  for 
ward  to  reconnoitre,  and  returned  to  hurry  up  the  command  which  was 
not  far  distant.  The  command  was  instantly  formed  in  order.  Captain 
Miller's  company  in  advance,  supported  by  Maxon's,  Henness'  and  Pow 
ell's  companies,  leaving  the  pack  train  in  charge  of  the  guard  under  Lieut. 
Goodwin,  with  a  detachment  of  Golfs  company  under  Lt.  Wait,  and  Lt. 
Williams'  company  in  reserve,  with  orders  to  follow  on  after  the  command. 

The  whole  command  moved  on  quietly  in  this  order,  until  within  half 
a  mile  of  the  Indian's  village,  where  we  discovered  that  the  pack  train 
had  moved  to  the  left,  down  the  Grand  Ronde  river.  At  this  moment,  a 
large  body  of  warriors  came  forward,  singing  and  whooping,  and  one  of 
them  waving  a  white  man's  scalp  on  a  pole.  One  of  them  signified  a  de 
sire  to  speak.  Whereupon,  I  sent  Captain  John  to  meet  him,  and  formed 
the  command  in  line  of  battle.  When  Captain  John  came  up  to  the  In 
dians,  they  cried  out  to  one  another  to  shoot  him,  whereupon  he  retreated 
to  the  command,  and  I  ordered  the  four  companies  to  charge. 

The  design  of  the  enemy  evidently  was  to  draw  us  into  the  brush 
along  the  river,  where,  from  our  exposed  position,  they  would  have  the  ad 
vantage — they  no  doubt  having  placed  an  ambush  there.  To  avoid  this, 
I  charged  down  the  river  towards  the  pack  train.  The  warriors  then  split 
— part  going  across  the  river,  and  part  down  towards  the  pack  train. 
These  we  soon  overtook,  and  engaged.  The  charge  was  vigorous  and  so 
well  sustained  that  they  were  broken,  dispersed  and  slain  before  us.  After 
a  short  time,  I  sent  Capt.  Miller  to  the  left,  and  Major  Maxon  to  the 
right — the  latter  to  cross  the  stream  and  cut  them  off  from  a  point  near 
which  a  large  body  of  warriors  had  collected,  apparently  to  fight,  while  I 
moved  forward  with  the  commands  of  Captain  Henness  and  Lt.  Powell 
to  attack  them  in  front. 

The  Major  could  not  cross  the  river,  and,  on  our  moving  forward,  the 
enemy  fled,  after  firing  a  few  guns,  part  taking  to  the  left,  and  part  con 
tinuing  forward. 

Those  who  took  to  the  left  fell  in  with  Capt.  Miller's  company,  who 
killed  five  on  the  spot,  and  the  rest  were  not  less  successful  in  the  pursuit 
which  was  continued  to  the  crossing  of  the  river,  where  the  enemy  had 


44 

taken  a  stand  to  defend  the  ford.  Being  here  rejoined  by  Capt.  Miller 
and  by  Lieut.  Curtis  with  part  of  Maxon's  company,  wo  fired  a  volley, 
and  I  ordered  a  charge  across  the  river,  which  was  gallantly  executed.  In 
doing  this,  private  Shirly  Ensign,  of  Hemiess'  company,  who  was  in  the 
front,  was  wounded  in  the  face.  Several  of  the  enemy  were  killed  at  this 
point.  We  continued  the  pursuit  until  the  enemy  had  reached  the  rocky 
canyons  leading  towards  Powder  river,  and  commenced  scattering  in  every 
direction,  when,  finding'  that  I  had  but  five  men  with  me,  and  the  rest  of 
the  command  scattered  in  the  rear — most  of  the  horses  being  completely 
exhausted — I  called  a  halt,  and  fell  back,  calculating  to  re-mount  the  men 
on  the  captured  horses,  and  continue  the  pursuit  after  night. 

I  found  the  pack  train,  guard  and  reserve,  encamped  on  a  small  creek 
not  far  from  the  crossing,  as  I  had  previously  ordered  them  to  do,  and 
learned  that  a  body  of  the  enemy  had  followed  them  up  all  day,  and  an 
noyed  them,  but  had  inflicted  no  damage  beyond  capturing  many  of  the 
animals  which  we  had  taken  in  the  charge,  and  left  behind. 

I  learned,  also,  that  Major  Maxon  had  crossed  the  river  with  a  small 
party,  and  was  engaged  with  the  enemy,  and  wanted  assistance,  I  imme 
diately  despatched  a  detachment  under  Lieuts.  Williams  and  Wait,  send 
ing  the  man  who  brought  the  information  back  with  them  as  a  guide. 
They  returned  after  dark,  without  finding  the  Major,  but  brought  in  one 
of  his  men,  whom  they  found  in  the  brush,  and  who  stated  that  one  of  the 
Major's  men  was  killed,  and  that  the  last  he  saw  of  them  they  were  fight 
ing  with  the  Indians.  At  day-light,  I  sent  out  Capt.  Miller  with  70  men, 
who  scouted  around  the  whole  valley  without  finding  him,  but  who,  unfor 
tunately  had  one  man  killed,  and  another  wounded  whilst  pursuing  some 
Indians.  I  resolved  to  move  camp  the  next  day  to  the  head  of  the  valley, 
where  the  emigrant  trail  crosses  it,  and  continue  the  search  until  we  be 
came  certain  of  their  fate.  The  same  evening,  I  took  60  men  under  Cap 
tain  Henness,  and  struck  upon  the  mountain  and  crossed  the  heads  of  the 
canyons  to  see  if  I  could  not  strike  his  trail.  Finding  no  sign,  I  returned 
to  the  place  where  the  Major  had  last  been  seen,  and  there  made  search 
in  different  directions,  and  finally  found  the  body  of  one  of  his  men 
(Tooley,)  and  where  the  Major  had  encamped  in  the  brush.  From  other 
signs,  it  became  evident  to  me  that  -the  Major  had  returned  to  this  post 
by  the  same  trail  by  which  we  first  entered  the  valley.  ' 

Being  nearly  out  of  provisions,  and  unable  to  follow  the  Indians  from 
this  delay,  I  concluded  to  return  to  camp,  recruit  for  another  expedition 
in  conjunction  with  Capt.  Goff,  who  had,  I  presumed,  returned  from  his 
expedition  to  John  Day's  river. 

I  should  have  mentioned  previously,  that  in  the  charge  the  command 
captured  and  afterwards  destroyed  about  150  horse  loads  lacamas,  dried 


45 

beef,  tents,  some  flour,  coffee,  sugar,  and  about  100  pounds  of  ammunition 
and  a  great  quantity  of  tools  arid  kitchen  furniture.  We  took  also  about 
200  horses,  most  of  which  were  shot,  there  being  but  about  100  service 
able  animals. 

There  were  present  on  the  ground  from  what  I  saw,  and  from  infor 
mation  received  from  two  squaws  taken  prisoners,  about  300  warriors  of 
the  Cayuse,  Walla  Walla,  Umatilla,  Tyh,  John  Day,  and  DesChutes 
tribes,  commanded  by  the  following  chiefs:  Stock  Whitley  and  Sim-mis- 
tas-tas,  DesChutes  and  Tyh;  Chick-iah,  Plyou,  Wic-e-cai,  Wat-ah-stuar- 
tih,  Win-imi-swoot,  Cayuses;  Tah-kin,  Cayuse,  the  son  of  Peu-peu-mox- 
mox,  Walla  Walla,  and  other  chiefs  of  less  note. 

The  whole  command,  officers  and  men,  behaved  well.  The  enemy 
was  run  on  the  gallop  for  15  miles,  and  most  of  those  who  fell  were  sfoot 
with  the  revolver.  It  is  impossible  to  state  how  many  of  the  enemy  were 
killed.  Twenty-seven  bodies  were  counted  by  one  individual,  and  many 
others  we  know  to  have  fallen  and  been  left,  but  were  so  scattered  about 
that  it  was  impossible  to  get  count  of  them.  When  to  these  we  add 
those  killed  by  Major  Maxon's  command  on  the  other  side  of  the  river, 
we  may  safely  conclude  that  at  least  forty  of  the  enemy  were  slain,  and 
many  went  off  wounded.  When  we  left  the  valley  there  was  not  an  In 
dian  in  it,  and  all  the  sign  went  to  show  that  they  had  gone  a  great  dis 
tance  from  it. 

On  the  21st  inst.,  we  left  the  valley  by  the  emigrant  road,  and  com 
menced  our  return  to  camp.  During  th  e  night  Lieut.  Hunter,  of  the  W. 
T.  Volunteers,  came  into  camp  with  an  express  from  Capt.  Goff.  I 
learned,  to  my  surprise,  that 'the  Captain  and  Major  Laytou  had  seen  In 
dians  on  John  Day's  river — had  followed  them  over  to  the  head  of  Burnt 
river,  and  had  had  a  fight  with  them,  in  which  Lieut.  Eustus  and  one 
private  were  killed,  and  some  seven  Indians.  They  were  shaping  their 
course  for  the  Grand  Ronde  Valley,  and  had  sent  for  provisions  and  fresh 
horses.  I  immediately  sent  Lieut.  Williams  back  with  all  my  spare  pro 
visions  and  horses,  and  continued  my  march.  On  Wild  Horse  creek,  I 
came  across  Mr.  Files,  a  pack  master,  who  had  been  left  in  ccirp,  who  in 
formed  me,  to  my  extreme  satisfaction,  that  Major  Maxon  and  his  com 
mand  had  arrived  safe  in  camp,  and  were  then  near  us  with  provisions  and 
ammunition.  These  I  sent  on  immediately  to  Capt.  Goff. 

I  learned  that  Major  Maxon  had  been  attacked  in  the  valley  by  a 
large  force  of  Indians,  on  the  day  of  the  fight — had  gained  the  brush  and 
killed  many  of  them— that  at  night  he  tried  to  find  our  camp,  and  hearing 
a  noise  like  a  child  crying,  probably  one  of  the  captured  squaws,  had  con 
cluded  that  my  command  had  gone  on  to  Powder  river,  and  that  the  Indi 
ans  had  returned  to  the  valley  by  another  canyon.  He  moved  his  position 


46 

that  night,  and  the  next  day  saw  the  scout  looking  for  him,  bnt  in  the 
distance  thought  that  it  was  a  band  of  Indians  hunting  his  trail.  Con 
ceiving  himself  cut  off  from  the  command,  he  thought  it  best  to  return  to 
this  camp,  thinking  that  we  would  be  on  our  way  back  to  Grand  Ronde 
with  provisions  and  ammunition. 

Enclosed  you  will  find  the    Surgeon's  report  of   the    killed    and 
wounded. 

Respectfully,  &c., 
(Signed,)  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Lieut.  Col.  commanding  expedition  to  Yakima. 


DR,  BURNS'  REPORT. 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  RIGHT  WING,  2o  REGIMENT,  W.  T.  Y. ) 
Camp  Mill  Creek,  Walla  Walla  Valley,  July  24,  1856.  f 

JAMES  TILTON,  ESQ., 

Adjutant  Gen.  W.  T.  Volunteers, 
SIR  :— 

I  send  you  my  report  of  the  killed  and  wounded  in  the  engagement 
on  the  Burnt  River  and  Grand  Ronde  on  the  15th  and  16th  July,  1856. 

Lieut.  Eustus,  co.  N,  killed — residence  Luckiamute,  0.  T. 

Daniel  Smith,  co.  K,  killed — residence  French  Prairie,  Oregon. 

James  Cheney,  co.  K,  wounded  in  the   thigh  slightly — residence  Or 
egon. 

Wm.  F.  Tooley,  co.  A,  killed — residence  Cape  Horn  Mountain. 

Win.  Irven,  co.  A,  killed — residence  Vancouver,  W.  T. 

Wm.  Holmes,  co.  K,  killed — residence  Thurston  co.,  W.  T. 

Thomas  Como,  co.  A,  dangerously  wounded — residence  Vancouver, 
W.  T. 

Shirley  Ensign,  co.  C,  wounded  in  the  nose  and  cheek. 

Wm.  Downy,  co.  D,  wounded  in  the  knee  with  an  arrow,  slightly. 

T.  N.  Lilley,  co.  J,  forearm  fractured  and  head  cut  by  an  Indian  with 

an  empty  gun. 

I  remain  respectfully  yours,  &c., 

(Signed)  MATTHEW  P.  BURNS,  M.  D. 

Surgeon  2d  Reg't  W.  T.  V.. 


47 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  W.  T.  V.,  FORT  MASON,  WALLA  WALLA  ) 
VALLEY,  W.  T.,  September  4th,  1856.  ) 

GENERAL  ORDERS  No.  6. 

The  Commander-in-Chief  feels  called  upon  to  express  his  regrets  that 
the  pack  train  was  captured  on  the  evening  of  the  28th  inst,  and  that 
Capts.  Goff  and  Williams  did  not  take  the  position  assigned  them  by  Lt. 
Col.  Shaw,  which  would  probably  have  resulted  in  the  defeat  of  the  enemy 
and  in  saving  the  train. 

The  packers  were  not  provided  with  rifles  or  guns,  and  the  escort 
left  without  a  proper  supply  of  ammunition,  both  contrary  to  orders  here 
tofore  given,  and  contrary  to  the  usage  of  the  service. 

On  a  calm  review  of  the  whole  matter,  the  Commander-in-Chief  must 
express  the  opinion  that,  under  the  circumstances,  the  pack  train  should 
not  have  been  abandoned. 

He  desires  to  impress  upon  the  troops  the  fact  established  by  expe 
rience,  especially  in  the  present  Indian  war,  that  bold  and  repeated 
charges  upon  the  enemy,  even  when  the  disparity  of  numbers  is  great,  will 
alone  lead  to  results.  In  this  way  only  can  the  superiority  of  our  race  be 
established.  In  all  mere  defensive  contests  with  Indians,  whether  behind 
breastworks,  or  in  the  brush,  an  Indian  is  as  good  as  a  white  man  ;  few 
laurels  can  thus  be  won,  and  the  result  may  be  discreditable. 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


HEAD  QUARTERS  W.  T.  V.,          ) 
Olympia,  W.  T.,  October  30,  1856.      J 

GENERAL  ORDERS  No.  7. 

/ 

1st.  The  volunteers  of  Washington  Territory,  of  both  staff  and 
line,  are  hereby  disbanded. 

2nd.  The  Adjutant  General,  Quartermaster  and  Commissary  Gen 
eral,  with  such  officers  and  employees  as  they  may  require  to  perfect  and 
finish  the  muster  rolls  and  accounts,  are  retained  in  service  till  further  or 
ders. 

3d.  All  officers  commanding  companies  will  be  discharged  upon  ren 
dition  of  their  muster  rolls  at  the  office  of  the  Adjutant  General,  and  th« 


48 

settlement  of  their  accounts  for  public  property  with  Quartermaster  and 
Commissary"  General. 

4th.  The  senior  officers  of  the  late  2d  regiment  "VY.  T.  Volunteers, 
and  the  Military  Clerk  to  the  Commander-in-chief,  will  be  retained  in 
service  till  further  orders. 

5th.  No  purchases  of  property  or  supplies  after  this  date  will  be 
made  by  any  officer  or  employee,  without  special  orders  from  the  Quarter 
master  General. 

6th.  The  Commander-in-Chief  desires  me  to  express  to  the  officers 
and  men  of  the  Right  Wing  of  the  2d  regiment,  commanded  by  Lt.  Col. 
Shaw,  the  Northern  Battalion,  commanded  by  Major  Van  Bokelin  ;  the 
Southern  by  Major  Maxon,  and  the  Central  by  Major  Blankenship,  his 
most  cordial  thanks,  for  the  signal  gallantry,  resolute  endurance,  and  ex 
cellent  discipline  they  have  displayed  and  maintained  during  their  six 
months'  arduous,  faithful  and  efficient  service. 

The  nature  of  the  vast  region  of  country  traversed,  the  wily  and 
resolute  character  of  the  savages  overawed  or  subdued,  and  the  privations 
endured  by  the  citizen  soldiery  of  the  2d  regiment,  are  well  known  and 
appreciated  by  the  inhabitants  of  Washington  Territory,  who  will  know 
how  to  Jioaor  for  all  future  time,  the  devoted  and  fearless  men  who  have 
maintained  the  foothold  of  civilization  upon  the  remote  frontier. 

History  will  present  the  fact  with  credit  and  honor  to  the  volunteer 
force,  that  during  the  six  months  of  active  service  of  one  thousand  of  the 
citizens  of  Washington  Territory,  not  a  single  friendly  Indian  has  been 
harmed  in  a  volunteer  camp  or  scout — no  Indian  has  been  plundered  or 
molested,  and  the  captured  property  of  defeated  savages  has  been  in  every 
case  turned  over  to  the  proper  officers,  and  faithfully  accounted  for  by 
them. 

To  the  efficient  staff,  commissioned  and  non-commissioned,  both  per 
sonal,  and  of  transportation  and  supply,  the  Commander-in-Chief  begs  to 
make  his  hearty  acknowledgments. 

Devotion  to  the  service,  aided  by  the  patriotism  and  generosity  of 
the  citizens,  has  enabled  a  widely  scattered  community  of  seventeen  hun 
dred  American  citizens  to  keep  on  foot,  feed,  clothe,  arm,  and  partly 
mount,  one  thousand  most  efficient  and  serviceable  troops. 

With  these  facts  for  the  future  historian,  the  year  1856,  although 
disastrous  in  material  prosperity,  is  rich  in  honorable  achievements,  and 
will  be  dwelt  upon  by  the  descendants  of  the  troops,  now  returning  to 
their  avocations  of  peace,  with  pride  and  exultation. 

(Signed,)  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V. 
By  order  of  the  Governor,  and  ) 

Commander-in-Chief. 


WAR   NOTICE. 

By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief,  I  hereby  call 
upon  the  citizens  of  the  counties  of  Lewis,  Chehalis,  Thurston,  Pierce 
and  Pacific,  for  reinforcements  to  support  the  gallant  volunteer  soldiery 
now  in  the  enemy's  country  north  of  the  Puyallup. 

To  insure  success,  it  is  deemed  essential  to  strengthen  the  central 
battalion. 

By  a  vigorours  effort  now,  there  is  a  reasonable  hope  of  annihilating 
the  savages  occupying  the  region  west  of  the  Cascades.  For  this  pur 
pose,  an  earnest  appeal  is  made  for  a  reinforcement  of  one  hundred  men, 
who  will  rendezvous  at  Olympia,  for  service  under  Major  G.  Hays,  to 
strengthen  the  companies  of  Captains  Henness,  Rabbeson,  White  and 
Swiudall. 

All  detachments,  upon  arrival  at  Olympia,  will  be  supplied  with  pro 
visions,  clothes,  arms,  transportation  and  escorts  to  the  field. 

Ample  supplies  for  the  forces  are  now  approaching  the  central  posi 
tion  upon  the  Muckelshoot  prairie. 

An  intelligent  and  patriotic  population  will  see  the  urgency,  of  the 
case,  and  by  bestowing  their  services  for  a  short  time,  share  in  the  achieve 
ments  of  their  friends  now  in  the  field,  and  materially  aid  in  the  speedy 
termination  of  the  war. 

The  following  named  gentlemen  are  requested  to  act  as  enrolling  offi 
cers  :  Capt.  John  R.  Jackson,  Highland,  Lewis  county;  J.  S.  M.  Van 
Cleave,  Pacific  county,  Chenook  Postoffice;  Private  Guest,  Capt.  Henness' 
company,  at  camp  Montgomery;  Dr.  J.  R.  Johnson,  Chehalis,  at  Bruce- 
port;  Henry  Cock,  Thurston,  at  Olympia. 

Enrolling  officers  will  make  requisition  upon  the  Qr.  Mr.  and  Com 
missary  at  Olympia  and  Steilacoom  for  supplies  and  quarters,  for  recruits 
daring  concentration  previous  to  marching. 

Enrolling  officers  will  report  at  this  office  for  marching  orders. 
(Signed,)  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  Gen.  W.  T.  Volunteers, 
Head  Quarters,  Olympia  W.  T. ) 
March  1st.,  1856.     f 


QUARTERMASTER'S  REPORT. 


OFFICE  Q.  M.  AND  COM.  GENERAL,    ) 
November  29th,  1856. 

Gov.  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

SIP.  :  In  answer  to  your  note  of  the  26th  inst.,  I  beg  leave  to  sub- 
mit  the  following  report  of  the  operations  of  the  Quartermaster  and  Com 
missary  Department,  W.  T.  V.  As  several  of  the  Assistant  Q.  Masters 
and  Commissaries  have  not  yet  had  time  to  send  in  their  accounts,  I  will 
not  be  able  to  give  in  a  full  and  complete  report  until  almost  two  months. 

Since  the  organization  of  the  Q.  Master  and  Commissary  department 
on  the  21st  January  of  the  current  year,  there  has  been  issued  $960,268,- 
32  worth  of  scrip  to  carry  on  its  operations.  Of  this  amount  $122,712,- 
09  has  been  redeemed  by  sales  of  public  property — leaving  $827,547  32 
outstanding. 

I  estimate  that  it  will  require  at  least  $35,500  in  addition,  to  pay 
unadjusted  accounts  against  this  department. 

In  accordance  with  your  order,  the  accounts  of  the  1st  regiment,  W. 
T.  V.,  called  out  by  proclamation  of  Acting  Gov.  Mason,piave  been  ex 
amined,  and  scrip  issued  for  the  amount  of  indebtedness.  This  regiment 
was  without  Q.  Masters  or  Commissaries.  Each  officer  in  command  was 
empowered  to  procure  whatever  his  men  might  need,  and  give  receipts  for 
the  same,  and  it  affords  me  pleasure  to  testify  that  this  authority  was 
never  abused. 

The  amount  of  debt  thus  created,  as  per  receipts  and  other  vouchers, 
is  $58,821  92,  for  which  scrip,  approved  by  the  Commander-in-Chief,  has 
been  issued,  and  I  estimate  that  $5000  more  of  the  scrip  will  be  required 
to  cover  the  total  indebtedness  ($62,821  92)  of  1st.  reg't  W.  T.  Y.  under 
Acting  Governor  Mason. 

RECAPITULATION. 

Scrip  issued  on  account  of  expenses  1st  reg't  W.  T. 

V,  under  proclamation  of  Act.  Gov.  Mason,  $58,821  92 
Scrip  to  be  issued  for  outstanding  accounts  against 

said  regiment,  $5,060  00 

$63,821  M 


51 

Scrip  issued  on  account  of  expenses  of  volunteer 

organization  since  21st  Jan.  1856,  $960,268  22 

Scrip  to  be  issued  for  outstanding  acc'ts  against 

said  organization,  35,500  00 

995,768  32 


$1,059,590  25 
Amount  of  Scrip  cancelled  by  sales  of  public  property,  132,121  09 

Total  amount  of  indebtedness,  $926,869  16 

The  operations  of  the  department  under  my  charge  have  been  carried 
on  under  very  discouraging  circumstances.  There  was  no  ready  money 
with  which  to  meet  daily  expenses.  There  were  no  large  cities  or  wealthy 
communities  where  supplies  could  be  purchased  for  the  immediate  need  of 
the  troops.  Every  thing  had  to  be  obtained  if  possible,  for  scrip,  from 
either  this  or  Oregon  Territory,  both  sparsely  populated,  already  impov 
erished  by  Indian  hostilities,  and  of  which  a  large  number  of  the  inhabit 
ants  were  in  arms  against  the  common  enemy.  In  this  Territory,  espe 
cially,  many  of  the  farmers  had  been  driven  from  their  claims — others, 
with  every  disposition  to  help  the  common  cause,  could  not  do  so  without 
depriving  their  families  of  bread.  Notwithstanding  this,  the  conduct  of 
the  citizens  has  been  worthy  of  all  praise.  Without  their  zealous  co-ope 
ration,  the  volunteers  would  have  starved. 

The  officers  of  this  department  consisted  of  1  Ass't  Q.  Master  and 
Commissary  General,  and  8  Ass't  Q.  M's  and  Commissaries  stationed,  as 
follows: 

Lieut.  Col.  Jas.  K.  Hurd,  Ass't  Q.  M.  and  Commissary  General,  su 
perintendent  of  all  business  on  the  Columbia  river. 

R.  S.  Robinson,  Ass't  Q.  M.  and  Commissary,  Port  Townsend,  and 
to  supply  the  northern  battalion. 

F.  Mathias,        do        at  Seattle. 

Warren  Gove,    do        at  Steilacoom. 

Chas.  E.  Weed,  do        at  Olympia. 

C.  C.  Pagett,      do        at  Lewis  county. 

M.  B.  Millard,    do        at  Vancouver. 

A.  H.  Robie,  do  at  the  Dalles,  and  field  operations  of  south 
ern  battalion. 

C.  H.  Armstrong,  Regt'l  Q.  M.  and  Commissary  in  the  field,  with 
the  right  wing  of  the  2d  regt.  W.  T.  Y. 

These  gentlemen  were  mostly  unacquainted  with  the  duties  of  the 
stations  on  first  appointment,  but  their  zeal  and  activity  soon  made  amends 
for  deficiencies,  and  I  am  under  the  highest  obligations  to  them  all  for 


52 

their  most  active  and  efficient  co-operation,  and  the  admirable  manner  in 
which  the  accounts  have  been  presented. 

About  Feb.  10th,  a  wagon  train  was  organized,  consisting  of  thirty 
wagons,  and  forty-five  teamsters  and  guards,  commanded  by  Copt.  Oliver 
Shead,  and  Lieuts.  O'Brian  and  Remley.  The  danger  and  difficulty  of 
the  duties  performed  by  this  train,  can  only  be  appreciated  by  one  ac. 
quainted  with  the  state  of  the  country  'and  of  the  roads  at  the  time.  As 
soon  as  organized,  the  train  was  despatched  from  Fort  Stevens  (Yelm 
prairie)  to  Fort  Hays  (Connell's  prairie)  via.  Camp  Montgomery,  with 
supplies  for  the  troops  then  in  the  field:  remaining  until  a  block  house  was 
built  on  Puyallup  river,  it  moved  again  to  Connell's  Prairie,  and  thence  re 
turned  to  Olympia,  about  March  10th.  From  this  time  until  June  it  was 
busily  engaged  in  transporting  stores  to  the  different  posts  scattered  over 
the  country.  Again  assembled  at  Camp  Montgomery,  it  transported  the 
stores  intended  for  Col.  Shaw's  command  to  Fort  Hays,  and  thence  part 
of  the  wagons  returned,  bringing  the  stores  not  turned  over  to  the  regular 
troops  with  the  post.  The  remainder  (five  or  six  wagons)  were  sent  to 
South  Prairie,  whence  they  returned  with  the  public  property  when  that 
post  was  abandoned.  A  portion  of  this  train  was  retained  until  the  latter 
part  of  September.  It  is  necessary  to  remark  here,  that  the  men  of  the 
train  were  its  only  escort,  and  that  during  several  months'  service,  not  an 
animal  was  lost  or  captured. 

A  pack  train,  consisting  of  109  animals,  laden  with  provisions  and 
ammunition,  and  21  men,  under  charge  of  Capt.  Armstrong,  accompanied 
the  right  wing  of  the  2d  regiment  in  its  march  from  Puget  Sound  to 
the  Walla  Walla,  under  command  of  Col.  Shaw.  With  almost  unprece 
dented  good  fortune  it  reached  the  latter  place  with  the  loss  of  only  one 
horse  and  pack,  caused  by  the  animal  stepping  from  the  trail,  at  a  danger 
ous  pass,  into  the  Nachess  river  beneath.  Without  other  accident,  on 
July  9th,  the  command  was  joined  by  Capt.  Robie's  Ass't  Q.  Master's 
train,  from  whom  a  fresh  supply  of  provisions  was  drawn,  those  brought 
over  the  mountains  being  nearly  exhausted. 

The  good  fortune  of  the  train  did  not  continue  throughout  the  cam 
paign.  Having  been  dispatched,  July  26th,  from  the  camp  on  Mill  Creek 
to  the  Dalles,  0 .  T.  for  supplies,  the  train,  with  a  small  escort  of  twenty- 
five  men,  was  attacked  on  its  return  by  a  body  of  Indians  near  the  Wal 
la  Walla  river.  After  fighting  from  10  A.  M.,  until  about  IIP.  M., 
their  ammunition  being  exhausted,  the  escort  and  packers  were  compelled 
to  leave  the  packs,  and  happily  made  good  their  retreat  to  Fort  Mason, 
distant  about  10  miles. 

The  duties  at  Port  Townsend  were  peculiar,  and  were  ably  performed 
fry  Capt.  R.  S.  Robinson,  Q.  Master  at  that  post.  Fort  Ebey,  ontht 


55 

Snohomish,  and  Forts  Tilton  aud  Alden,  on  the  Snoqualmie,  were  garri 
soned  by  the  northern  battalion. 

Vessels  were  chartered  to  ply  between  Victoria,  (Vancouver's  Island) 
where  most  of  the  supplies  were  purchased,  and  posts  on  the  upper  part 
of  the  Sound. 

From  Port  Townsend  the  provisions  were  sent  to  the  different  posts, 
by  way  of  the  rivers,  in  canoes  manned  by  friendly  Indians,  but  under 
charge  of  white  men,  a  distance  of  twenty-five  miles.  The  manner  in 
which  this  duty  was  performed  is  most  creditable  to  Capt.  Robinson. 

Capt.  Robie,  Q.  Master  at  the  Dalles,  started  in  June  from  that 
place  with  a  train  of  45  wagons  and  thirty-five  pack  animals,  escorted  by 
the  command  of  Capt.  Goff.  Depositing  its  load  at  Walla  Walla,  the 
train  returned  to  the  Dales  for  a  fresh  supply,  and  by  the  24th  August, 
was  again  on  the  road  to  Walla  Walla  valley.  In  consequence  of  such 
promptness  and  activity,  Col.  Shaw's  command  was  never  in  want  of  sup 
plies. 

The  success  of  the  operations  in  the  Q.  Master  and  Commissary  de 
partment  on  the  Columbia,  is  mainly  due,  however,  to  the  energy  and 
ability  with  which  Col.  Hurd  and  Capt.  Millard  effected  purchases,  and 
pushed  forward  supplies  to  the  Dalles. 

In  addition  to  the  above,  this  department  has  furnished  supplies  to 
detachments  and  companies  in  almost  every  part  of  the  territory,  and 
block  houses,  roads  and  ferries,  have  been  constructed  under  its  direction. 

In  obedience  to  orders,  the  public  property  has  been  disposed  of  as 
soon  as  possible,  and  all  haste  is  being  made  to  bring  the  affairs  of  the 
department  to  a  close.  I  am  gratified  to  be  able  to  state  that  much  of  it 
sold  at  a  high  advance  on  the  original  prices,  which  were  regarded  as  ex 
travagant  at  the  commencement  of  the  war.  Yet  horses,  which  cost  from 
$250  to  $400  brought  from  $200  to  $600;  wagons,  costing  $200,  were  rea 
dily  sold  for  $300,  and  oxen  were  disposed  of  at  $30  per  cent,  above  cost. 
This,  too,  after  the  property  had  been  of  course  deteriorated  by  6  month's 
active  service. 

As  an  evidence  of  the  fidelity  with  which  the  public  interest  has  been 
protected,  it  is  sufficient  to  state  that,  whilst  5tl  horses  were  purchased 
for  the  service,  600  have  been  turned  in  and  sold.  When  it  is  remembered 
that  many  of  the  animals  have  died  in  service,  and  that  many  have  been 
captured  by  the  enemy,  it  will  be  seen  how  faithfully  the  animals  pur 
chased  and  those  captured  at  Grand  Ronde  have  been  accounted  for. 

I  am  much  indebted  to  all,  both  officers  and  employees,  for  their  zeal' 
ous  and  intelligent  co-operation.  My  thanks  are  especially  due  to  the  gen* 


54 

tlemen  in  this  office  for  their  constant  and  untiring  devotion  to  their  duties. 
The  accounts  are  being  rapidly  brought  to  a  close,  and  I  hope  soon  to  be 
able  to  present  them  for  final  adjustment. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  very  respectfully, 

(Signed,)  WILLIAM  W.  MILLER, 

Q.  M,  &  Com.  Gen.,  W.  T.  V. 


REPORT  OF  CAPTAIN  OF  ENGINEERS. 


HEAD  QRARTERS,  OLYMPIA,  W.  T. 

Gov.  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Commander-in-Chief,  W.  T.  Y. 

SIR  :  In  obedience  to  orders,  I  beg  leave  to  transmit  the  follow 
ing  list  of  Block  Houses  and  Stockades  erected  during  the  late  Indian 
war,  and  whether  built  at  the  public  or  private  expense. 

The  following  were  erected  either  at  the  expense  of  the  Quartermas 
ter  department,  or  by  the  volunteer  troops  in  the  field: 

Blockhouse  (stockaded)  at  the  Cowlitz  Landing. 

do  at  French  settlement,  near  Cowlitz  Farms. 

do  at  Skookum  Chuck. 

do  on  Chehalis  river,  below  mouth  of  Skookum  Chuck. 

do  on  Tenalquot  Plains  (Fort  Miller.) 

do  on  Yelm  Prairie,  (Fort  Stevens.) 

do  at  Lowe's,  on  Chambers  Prairie. 

Two  do  at  Olympia. 

do  (Stockaded)  at  Packwood's  ferry,  (Fort  Raglan.) 

Two  do  (Fort  HicksJ  at  Montgomery's,  built  by  Pioneer  Co. 

do  (Fort  White)  crossing  of  the  Puyallup. 

Two  do  (Fort  Hays)  ConnePs  Prairie. 

Two  do  (Forts  Pike  and  Posey)  crossing  of  White  river. 

do  (Fort  McAlister)  on  South  Prairie. 

do  (Fort  Lander)  on  Dewamish,  built  by  volunteers, 

do  at  Seattle. 

One  do  on  Lone  Tree  Point. 

do  (Fort  Ebey)  on  Snohomish. 


55 

Blockhouses,  (Fort  Tilton)  at  head  of  canoe  navigation,  1 J  miles  below 
Snoqualmie  Falls,  built  by  northern  battalion. 

do         (Fort  Alden)  2  J  miles  above  Snoqualmie  Falls,  on  Ranger's 

Prairie,  built  by  northern  battalion. 
do        at  Port  Townsend. 
do        at  Wilson's  Point. 
do        at  Bellingham  Bay. 
do        at  Skookum  Chuck. 

do        at  Yancouver,  built  by  Capt.  Kelly's  company, 
do        at  Fourth  Prairie. 
do        at  Washougle  river. 
do        on  Lewis  river, 
do         (Fort  Mason)   in  Walla  Walla  Yalley,  built  by  order  of 

Col.  Shaw. 
do        (Fort  Preston)  Michel's  Fork  of  JSTesqually,  built  by  Capt. 

Miller's  company. 
do        on  Klicatat  Prairie,  near  Cowlitz. 

The  following  were  built  in  different  neighborhoods,  by  the  settlers 
themselves,  for  mutual  protection: 
Blockhouse,  at  Davis'. 
Stockade  at  Cochrans',  on  Skookum  Chuck. 

do        (Fort  Henness)  near  Mound  Prairie. 
Blockhouse  on  Tenalquet  prairie. 

do        at  Nathan  Batons. 
Two  blockhouses  on  Chamber's  Prairie. 
Stockade  at  Bush's. 

do      at  Goodell's,  • 

Blockhouse  at  Ruddell's. 

do          at  Rutledge's. 
Two    do     at  Falls,  near  Olympia. 
do     at  Dofflemyer's. 
do     on  Whidby's  Island, 
do     at  Port  Gamble,  built  by  Capt.  Keller, 
do      (Fort  Arkansas^  on  Cowlitz. 
do     on  Mime  Prairie, 
do     at  Port  Ludlow, 
do     at  Meigs'  Mill. 
Two       do     at  Cascades, 
do     at  Boisefort. 

Built  by  the  regular  troops  : — 

Fort  Slaughter,  on  Muckelshoot  Prairi*. 


56 

Fort  Malony,  on  the  Puyallup  rirw. 

Fort  Thomas,  on  Green  River. 

Blockhouse  on  Black  River. 

In  addition  to  the  erection  of  these  defences,  portions  of  the  troops 
and  quartermaster's  men  were  employed  in  opening  new  roads,  and  repair, 
ing  old  ones,  for  the  transportation  of  stores  &c.,  from  one  defensive  point 
to  another.  Amongst  these  may  be  mentioned  as  the  most  important,  a 
trail  cut  from  Porter's  Prairie  to  Ranger's  Prairie — wagon  road  fromC  on* 
nell's  to  South  Prairie — wagon  road  from  Montgomerys  and  Council's 
Prairie  to  White  River — ferry  established  on  the  Puyallnp,  at  Fort  White 
&c.,  performed  by  the  Pioneer  company,  equally  as  distinguished  for  gal 
lantry  as  for  industry  in  the  field,  and  a  trail  cut  from  Fort  Tilton  to  Ran 
ger's  Prairie,  and  thence  to  Cedar  Rj^ — trail  from  Rattlesnake  Prairie 
to  Snoqualmie  Pass,  &c.,  by  the  noflBn  battalion,  which  deserves  the 
highest  commendation  for  its  soldieiJJRe  endurance  of  fatigue  and  hard 
ships. 

I  beg  leave,  herewith,  to  transmit  two  maps,  one  exhibiting  the  line 
of  march  of  the  right  wing  of  the  2d  regiment,  W.  T.  Y.  from  Puget 
Sound,  to  the  Grand  Ronde,  as  well  as  Capt.  Goff's  (W.  T.  Y.)  march 
from  the  Dalles  to  Burnt  River,  and  the  other  showing  the  situation  of 
the  various  blockhouses  above  mentioned. 
Respectfully, 

W.  W.  BE  LACY, 

Capt.  Engineers,  W,  T.  Y. 


REPORT  OF  ORDNANCE  OFFICER, 


ORDNANCE  DEFT,  W.  V.  SERVICE,    1 
Olympia,  Dec.  1st.,  1856,          f 

V 

In  obedience  to  orders,  I  nqB  the  honor  to  submit  the  following 
brief  report  relative  to  the  public  arms  of  the  territory. 

Received  from  the  United   States  Ordnance  Department,  as  donated 
by  act  of  congress  to  the  territory, 

In  percussion  muskets,  1,980 

do          rifles,  100 

Cavalry  sabres,  30 

Received  by  Acting  Gov.  Mason,  on  his  requisition  upon 
the  military  storekeeper  at  Columbia  barracks  (Fort 
Yancouver)  and  which  are  to  be  replaced  out  of  the 
future  quota  of  arms  due  the  territory,  150 

There  has  been  turned  in  by  the  volunteer  officers  since 
the  disbandment  of  the  forces  up  to  Dec.  1st.,  1^4  -2,434 


ISSUED. 

To  counties,  on  receipt  of  county  commissioners,  1,046 

To  counties  for  which  commissioners  have  not  yet  for 

warded  receipts,  228 

To  volunteer  and  naval  officers,  as  per  receipt,  224 

To  citizens  of  the  several  counties  on  their  individual 

receipts,  35 

The  number  retained  and  lost  by  citizens  in  the  volun 

teer  service,  as  shown  by  muster  rolls,  and  also,  those 

not  yet  accounted  for,  amount  to  lit 

On  hand,  784 


58 
RECAPITULATION. 

Received — From  Ordnance  .Department,  TJ.  S.,  2,110 

Columbia  Barracks,  150 

"       Volunteers,  174 

2,434 

Issued — To  counties,  1,284 

to  volunteer  and  naval  officers,  224 

to  citizens,  35 

volunteer  service,  lit 

Arms  on  hand,  784 

—   2,434 
Respectfully  sumbitted, 

R.  M.  WALKER, 
Ordnance  officer,  W.  T.  Y.  Service. 
His  Excellency, 

ISAAC  L  STEVENS, 

Grov.  and  Commander-in- Chief  W.  T.  V.  Forces. 


CORRESPONDENCE. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  W.  T.,         ) 
OLYMPIA,  Oct.  22d,  1856.) 

Hon.  ROBERT  B.  MCCLELLAND, 

Secretary  of  the  Interior,  Washington  City,  D.  C. : 

SIR  : — Herewith  I  have  the  honor  to  transmit  to  you  a  copy  of  an 
order  issued  by  Lieut.  Col.  Steptoe,  commanding  in  the  Walla  Walla 
valley. 

(COPY   OF   ORDER.) 

FORT  DALLES,  0.  T., ) 
Aug.  20th,  1856.      ) 

"  The  undersigned,  having  been  designated  to  establish  a  military  post 
in  the  Walla  Walla  country,  and  with  a  view  to  prevent  all  misunder 
standing  on  the  subject,  believes  it  proper  to  make  known  the  following 
instructions  he  has  recently  received  from  the  Pacific  Military  Department. 

"  No  emigrant  or  other  white  person,  except  the  Hudson's  Bay  Co.,  or 
persons  having  ceded  rights  from  the  Indians,  will  be  permitted  to  settle  or- 
to  remain  in  the  Indian  country,  or  on  land  not  settled  or  not  confirmed  by 
the  Senate  and  approved  by  the  President  of  the  United  States. 

11  These  orders  are  not,  however,  to  apply  to  the  miners  engaged  in 
collecting  gold  at  Colville  mines." 

(Signed,)  E.  J.  STEPTOE, 

Brev't  Col.  U.  S.  A. 

By  reference  to  the  act  of  Congress  approved  Sept.  27th,  1850,  en 
titled  "An  act  creating  the  office  of  Surveyor  General  of  the  public  lands 
in  Oregon,  &c.,"  and  the  acts  pf  Feb.  14th,  1853,  and  July  17th,  1854, 
amendatory  thereto,  applicable  alike  to  Washington  territory,  all  the  pub 
lic  domain  in  this  territory  was  thrown  open  to  settlers,  they  being  required, 
in  order  to  perfect  the  donation  thus  offered  to  them,  to  perform  certain 


60 

tcts  of  "residence  and  cultivation."  .  By  reference  to  the  4th  and  5th  sec 
tions  of  the  act  first  above  mentioned,  it  will  be  found  that  the  words  of 
doaatioii  are  "that  there  ehall  be  and  hereby  is  granted,  fyc.  f  words  which 
at  once  vest  a  right  in  the  occupant  of  the  soil  dependant  simply  upon  the 
performance  of  a  condition  subsequent,  a  mere  act  of  volition  on  his  part. 
By  the  language  of  the  statute  referred  to,  it  would  seem  that  all  title  had 
passed  from  the  general  government,  and  it  simply  remained  for  the  settler 
to  fulfil  the  conditions. 

Under  the  provisions  of  this  act  some  fifty  to  seventy-five  citizens  had 
taken  claims  in  the  territory  lying  east  of  the  Cascade  mountains,  and  af 
fected  by  the  above  order,  and  resided  upon  them  until  driven  off  by  tho 
Indians. 

By  an  order  of  a  military  officer  of  the  United  States  they  are  now 
forbidden  to  return  to  their  homes,  and  impliedly  threatened  wi;h  expulsion 
should  they  do  so. 

Your  early  attention  is  called  to  this  matter,  for  it  certainly  must  be 
doubted  whether  the  commanding  officer  of  a  department  or  district  can 
legally  exercise  an  authority  which  abrogates  a  statute  of  the  United 
States,  and  deprives  citizens  of  vested  rights,  acquired  not  only  by  boldly 
pushing  forward  on  the  frontier  and  seeking  new  homes  in  the  wilderness, 
but  also  by  the  plighted  faith  of  the  government. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Territory  Washington. 


WASHINGTON,  Aug.  15,  1854. 
Hon.  JEFFERSON  DAVIS, 

Secret?  ry  of  War,  Washington,  D.  C. : 

SIR  : — Arms  and  ammunition  are  much  needed  on  Puget  Sound,  in 
order  that  the  settlers  may  protect  themselves  from  Indian  depredations. 

The  militia  of  the  Territory  has  not  yet  been  organized,  though  effi 
cient  steps  to  this  end  will  be  taken  the  coming  winter. 

If  under  these  circumstances  arms  and  ammunition  can  be  issued,  I 
will  request  that  it  may  be  done  without  delay.  I  will  suggest  that  one 
thousand  stand  of  arms  and  one  hundred  thousand  cartridges,  with  a  few 
revolvers,  be  placed  in  depot  at  FortSteilacoom,  in  the  charge  of  the  com 
mandant,  subject  to  the  requisition  of  the  government  of  the  Territory. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully,  your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Washington  Territory. 


61 

WAR  DEPARTMENT,  WASHINGTON,  ) 
August  18th,  1854.          J 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  letter  of 
the  15th  instant,  asking  that  arnas  and  ammunition  may  be  placed  ia  de 
pot  at  Fort  Steilacoom  in  charge  of  the  Governor  of  Washington  territory. 
In  reply,  I  have  to  inform  you  that  under  the  law  for  arming  the 
militia,  the  territory  is  not  entitled  to  and  cannot  be  supplied  with  arms 
until  the  return  of  the~effective  militia  therein  is  received. 

Yery  respectfully,  your  ob't  serv't, 
(Signed,)  JEFFERSON  DAYIS, 

Sec'y  of  War. 
His  Excellency  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  of  Washington  Territory, 


(EXTRACTS.) 

OLYMPIA,  W.  T.,  Dec.  21,  1854. 

Hon.  JEFFERSON  DAVIS, 

Secretary  of  War,  Washington,  D.  C.  : 

gm .  ****** 

i 
As  regards  the  Columbia  river  and  the  two  great  routes  to  the  States 

by  the  South  Pass  and  the  northern  passes,  it  has  seemed  to  me  that  the 
Walla  Walla  valley  was  the  great  point  for  a  post,  the  Dalles  and  Van 
couver  being  mainly  depots  held  by  a  single  company  each.  A  military 
road  is  much  needed  from  Vancouver  to  the  Dalles,  giving  easy  communi 
cations  at  all  seasons  of  the  year.  For  greater  economy,  and  till  the  ad 
vance  of  settlements  shall  afford  plentiful  supplies,  a  portion  of  the  garrison 
in  the  Walla  Walla  valley  might  be  withdrawn  to  Vancouver.  I  make 
these  suggestions  as  the  result  of  my  observations  and  experience  in  this 
country. 

******** 

I  have  the  honor  to~remain,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Snp't  Indian  Affairs. 


62 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  W.  T. 


u 

February  19th,  1856.         ) 

Hon.  JEFFERSON  DAVIS, 

Secretary  of  War  :    % 

SIR  : — Having  been  constantly  and  closely  occupied  since  my  return 
from  the  Blackfeet  council,  I  avail  myself  of  this  the  first  opportunity,  to 
inform  the  Department  fully  of  the  condition  of  this  territory  in  the  exci 
ting  Indian  war.  And  in  order  to  arrive  at  a  full  understanding  of  the 
state  of  affairs,  it  is  deemed  necessary  to  state  the  facts  connected  with  my 
return  from  the  Missouri,  where  a  treaty  of  peace  and  friendship  had  been 
concluded  with  the  Blackfeet  and  other  tribes  of  Indians. 

On  the  29th  day  of  October,  when  two  days  march  from  Fort  Ben- 
ton,  on  my  return  to  this  place,  W.  H.  Pearson  reached  my  camp  with  an 
express  from  acting  Governor  Mason,  bringing  the  startling  intelligence  that 
the  Yakima  Indians,  with  whom  I  had  concluded  a  treaty  in  June  last, 
had  murdered  a  number  of  whites  in  their  country,  their  agent,  A.  J.  Bo- 
Ion,  and  had  finally  broken  out  into  open  war  ;  had  defeated  a  detachment 
of  U.  S.  troops  under  Major  Haller,  and  had  declared  their  determination 
to  exterminate  all  the  whites  in  the  country. 

It  was  supposed  that  the  Cayuses,  Walla  Wallas  and  Umatillas  would 
join,  and  that  the  Spokanes  and  Cour  d'  Alenes  were  disposed  to  hostilities. 

At  this  time  my  party  of  25  men  were  in  this  condition — our  animals 
were  poor  and  jaded  from  the  express  service  in  which  they  had  been  em 
ployed  in  the  operations  preliminary  to  the  Blackfoot  council,  for  our 
express  had  ranged  from  the  Saskatchawau  on  the  north  to  the  Yellow 
Stone  on  the  south. 

They  possessed  but  few  arms  and  but  little  ammunition,  as  we  had,  in 
coming  up,  found  no  use  for  them,  passing  through  the  territory  of  friendly 
Indians. 

Under  these  circumstances  I  halted  the  train ;  despatched  my  secreta 
ry,  Mr.  Doty,  to  Forts  Benton  and  Campbell  to  procure  arms,  ammunition, 
and  fresh  animals.  Oct.  31st,  I  pushed  forward  to  the  Bitter  Hoot  valley 
to  make  arrangements  for  fresh  animals  and  supplies,  instructing  Mr.  Doty 
to  come  on  as  rapidly  as  the  condition  of  the  train  would  permit. 

I  reached  the  valley  Nov.  4th,  making  the  distance  of  230  miles  in 
4J  days. 

The  train  left  the  Missouri  Nov.  4th,  and  reached  Hell  Gate  in  Bitter 
Root  valley,  where  I  had  established  my  camp,  in  8  days,  a  distance  of 
200  miles. 

I  had  overtaken,  before  reaching  the  valley,  delegations  of  Nez  Perce 
chiefs,  who  had  attended  the  Blackfoot  council .  A  conference  was  held 
with  them  at  Hell  Gate.  They  had  already  heard,  through  Indian  ru- 


mors,  of  the  wi3r  below.  I  stated  to  them  fully,  the  state  of  affairs,  and 
requested  that  certain  of  their  number  would  accompany  me,  it  being  my 
determination  to  push  forward  by  way  of  the  Cour  d'Alene  pass,  although 
it  was  declared  to  be  impracticable  on  account  of  snow. 

The  result  of  our  conference  was  most  satisfactory.  The  whole  party, 
numbering  14  men,  among  whom  were  Spotted  Eagle,  Looking  Glass,  and 
Three  Feathers,  principal  chiefs  among  the  Nez  Perces,  expressed  their 
determination  to  accompany  me,  and  share  any  danger  to  be  encountered. 

They  expressed  a  desire  that,  after  crossing  the  mountains,  I  should 
go  to  their  country,  where  a  large  force  of  their  young  men  would  ac 
company  me  to  the  Dalles,  and  protect  us  with  .their  lives  against  any 
enemy. 

Having  replenished  my  train  with  all  the  animals  to  be  had,  on  Nov. 
i4th  we  pushed  forward,  crossed  the  Bitter  Root  mountains  the  20th,  in 
snow  2 1  to  three  feet  deep,  and  reached  the  Cceur  d'Alene  Mission  the 
25th — taking  the  Coeur  d'Alenes  entirely  by  surprise.  They  had  not 
thought  it  possible  we  would  cross  the  mountains  so  late  in  the  season. 

With  the  Cceur  d'Alenes  I  held  a  council,  and  found  them  much  ex 
cited,  on  a  balance  for  peace  or  for  war,  and  a  chance  word  might  turn 
them  either  way. 

Rumors  of  all  kinds  met  us  here  :  that  the  troops  had  fought  a  bat 
tle  with  the  Yakimas,  and  drove  them  across  the  Columbia  towards  the 
Spokane,  and  that  the  Walla  Wallas,  Cayuses  and  Umatillas,  were  in 
arms,  and  that  they  had  been  joined  by  a  party  of  the  Nez  Perces.  The 
accounts  were  of  so  contradictory  a  nature  that  nothing  certain  could  be 
ascertained  from  them,  excepting  that  the  several  tribes  below  were  in 
arms,  blocking  up  our  road,  and  had  threatened  to  cut  off  my  party  in 
any  event.  However,  I  determined  to  push  to  the  Spokane. 

The  Spokanes  were  even  more  surprised  than  the  Cceur  d'Alenes  at 
seeing  us.  Three  hours  before  my  arrival  they  heard  I  was  going  to  the 
settlements  by  way  of  New  York.  I  immediately  called  a  council,  sent 
to  Fort  Colville  for  Mr.  McDonald,  hi  charge  of  that  post  of  the  Hud 
son's  Bay  Company,  sent  also  for  the  Jesuit  Fathers  at  that  point.  They 
arrived.  A  council  was  held,  at  which  the  whole  Spokane  nation  was 
represented.  The  Cceur  d'Alenes  and  Colville  Indians  also  were  present. 

The  Spokanes  and  Colville  Indians  evinced  extreme  hostility  of  feel 
ing — spoke  of  the  war  below — wanted  it  stopped — said  the  whites  were 
wrong.  The  belief  was  current  that  Peu-pee-mox-moz  would  cut  off  my 
party,  as  he  had  repeatedly  threatened.  They  had  not  joined  in  the  war, 
but  yet  would  make  no  promises  to  remain  neutral.  If  the  Indians  now 
at  war  were  driven  into  their  country  they  would  not  answer  for  the  con- 
equences  ;  probably  many  of  the  Spokanes  would  join  them. 


64 

After  a  stormy  council  of  several  days,  the  Spokanes,  Cceur  d'Alenes, 
and  Colvilles  were  entirely  conciliated,  and  promised  that  they  would  re 
ject  all  the  overtures  of  the  hostile  Indians,  and  continue  the  firm  friends 
of  the  whites. 

Having  added  to  my  party,  and  organized,  &c.,  we  thence  made  a 
forced  march  to  the  Nez  Perce  country,  striking  the  Clear  Water  at  Lap- 
wai.  Here  we  found  assembled  the  whole  Nez  Perce  nation,  excepting 
those  in  the  buffalo  country. 

Mr.  Craig  had  received  letters  which  informed  me  that  the  whole 
Walla  Walla  valley  was  blocked  up  with  hostile  Indians,  and  the  Xez 
Perces  said  it  was  impossible  to  go  through. 

I  called  a  council,  and  proposed  to  them  that  150  of  their  young 
men  should  accompany  me  to  the  Dalles. 

Without  hesitation  they  agreed  to  go.  Whilst  in  the  council,  ma 
king  arrangements  for  our  movements,  news  came  that  a  force  of  gallant 
Oregon  volunteers,  four  hundred  strong,  had  met  the  Indians  in  the  Wal 
la  Walla  valley,  and,  after  four  days'  hard  fighting,  having  a  number  of 
officers  and  men  killed  and  wounded,  had  completely  routed  the  enemy- 
driving  them  across  the  Snake  river,  and  towards  the  Nez  Perce  country. 

The  next  day  I  pushed  forward,  accompanied  by  69  Nez  Perces, 
well  armed,  and  reached  Walla  Walla  without  encountering  any  hostile 
Indians.  They  had  all  been  driven  across  Snake  river  below  us  by  the 
Oregon  troops. 

It  is  now  proper  to  inquire,  what  would  have  been  the  condition  of 
my  party,  had  not  the  Oregon  troops  vigorously  pushed  into  the  field  and 
galjantly  defeated  the  enemy? 

The  country  between  the  Blue  Mountains  and  the  Columbia  was 
overrun  with  Indians,  numbering  1,000  to  1,200  warriors,  including  the 
force  at  Priest  Rapids,  under  Kamiaken,  who  had  sworn  to  cut  me  off ;  it 
was  completely  blocked  up. 

One  effect  of  the  campaign  of  the  regulars  and  volunteers  in  the 
Yakima  country  under  Brig.  Gen.  Raines,  was  to  drive  Kamiaken  and 
his  people  on  our  side  of  the  Columbia  river,  and  thus  endanger  our 
movement  from  the  Spokane  to  the  Nez  Perce  country. 

Thus  we  had  been  hemmed  in  by  a  body  of  hostile  Indians  through 
whom  we  could  have  only  forced  our  way  with  extreme  difficulty,  and  at 
great  loss  of  life.  We  might  all  have  been  sacrificed  in  the  attempt.  To 
the  opening  the  way  to  my  party,  I  am  solely  indebted  to  the  Oregon 
volunteers. 

Peu-pee-mox-mox,  the  celebrated  chief  of  the  Walla  Wallas,  enter 
tained  an  extreme  hostility  towards  myself  and  party,  owing  to  imaginary 
wrongs  he  supposed  had  been  inflicted  upon  him  in  the  treaty  concluded 


65 

with  the  Cayuses  and  Walla  Wallas  last  June,  and  had  been  known  re 
peatedly  to  threaten  that  I  should  never  reach  the  Dalles.  He  was  the 
first  to  commence  hostilities  by  plundering  Fort  Walla  Walla,  and  des 
troying  a  large  amount  of  property  belonging  to  the  U.  S.  Indian  De 
partment. 

This  chief  was  taken  prisoner  by  the  Oregon  volunteers,  while  en 
deavoring  to  lead  them  into  an  ambush.  During  the  heat  of  the  first 
day's  battle,  he  and  four  other  prisoners  attempted  to  escape  by  forcibly 
attacking  the  guard,  and  were  at  once  shot  down. 

At  Walla  Walla  I  found  some  25  settlers — the  remainder  having 
fled  to  the  Dalles  for  protection.  With  these  were  100  friendly  Indians. 

Special  Indian  agent  B.  F.  Shaw,  Col.  in  the  W.  T.  militia,  was  on 
the  ground,  and  I  at  once  organized  the  district,  placed  him  in  command, 
and  directed  him,  if  necessary,  to  fortify,  but  at  all  events,  to  maintain 
his  ground,  should  the  Oregon  troops  be  disbanded  before  another  force 
could  take  the  field. 

The  Nez  Perces  auxiliaries  were  disbanded,  and  returned  home. 

Thus  we  had  reached  a  place  of  safety  unaided/.excepting  by  the 
fortunate  movements  of  the  Oregon  troops.  Not  a  single  man  had  been 
pushed  forward  to  meet  us.  Although  it  was  well  known  we  should  cross 
the  mountains  about  a  certain  time,  and  arrive  at  Walla  Walla  about  the 
time  we  did.  Why  was  this  ?  Arrangements  had  been  made  with  Maj. 
Raines  by  Acting  Governor  Mason,  to  push  forward  a  force  under  Col. 
Shaw  to  meet  me  at  Spokane  about  the  time  of  my  arrival  there.  A 
company  had  been  enlisted,  organized,  and  marched  to  Fort  Vancouver 
to  obtain  equipments,  rations  and  transportation,  which  Major  Rains  had 
promised  both  Gov.  Mason  and  Col.  Shaw  should  be  promptly  furnished 
them.  Some  little  delay  ensued,  and  in  the  meantime,  Major  Gen.  Wool 
arrived,  who  immediately  -declined  equipping  the  company,  as  promised 
by  Major  Raines,  and  stated  that  he  could  not,  in  any  manner,  recognize 
volunteers,  or  furnish  them  equipments  or  transportation,  and  declining 
to  supply  their  place  with  regular  troops,  of  whom,  at  Vancouver  alone, 
were  some  350  men.  • 

When  remonstrated  with  by  Capt.  Wm.  McKay,  in  command  of  the 
company  to  push  forward  to  my  assistance,  when  informed  of  the  object 
for  which  the  company  was  enlisted,  and  that,  if  it  was  not  pushed  for 
ward  at  once,  or  if  some  other  force  was  not  sent,  Gov.  Stevens  and  his 
party  would  be  in  the  most  imminent  danger,  the  General  replied  that,  in 
his  opinion,  the  danger  was  greatly  exaggerated  :  that  probably  Governor 
Stevens  would  be  able  to  protect  himself,  but  if  he  could  not,  then  Gov. 
Stevens  could  obtain  an  escort  from  Gen.  Harney. 

What  a  reply  was  that?     A  moiety  of  the  Indians  now  in  arms  had 
9 


66 

defeated  a  detachment  of  100  U.  S.  regulars.  Major  Raines  had  placed 
on  record  his  opinion  that  an  insufficient  force  would  be  defeated  by  these 
Indians,  and  my  party  was  supposed  to  number  no  more  than  25  men. 
Yet  Major  General  Wool  very  coolly  says  "Gov.  Stevens  can  take  care 
of  himself."  So,  too,  in  the  remark  that  I  could  obtain  aid  from  General 
Harney.  Did  Gen.  Wool  know  that  the  distance  from  Fort  Benton  to 
the  supposed  position  of  Gen.  Harney,  was  greater  than  the  distance  from 
Fort  Benton  to  the  Dalles,  and  that,  to  obtain  aid  from  him,  would  re 
quire  not  less  than  six  months?  And  that  an  express,  to  reach  him,  must 
pass  through  the  entire  breadth  of  the  Sioux  country?  Such  ignorance 
shows  great  incapacity,  and  is  inexcusable. 

Mr.  Secretary: — Major  General  Wool,  commanding  the  Pacific  Di 
vision,  neglected  and  refused  to  send  a  force  to  the  relief  of  myself  and 
party,  when  known  to  be  in  imminent  danger,  and  believed  by  those  who 
were  best  capable  of  judging,  to  be  coming  on  to  certain  death,  and  this 
when  he  had  at  his  command  an  efficient  force  of  regular  troops.  He 
refused  to  sanction  the  agreement  made  between  Gov.  Mason  and  Major 
Ilaines  for  troops  to  be  sent  to  my  assistance,  and  ordered  them  to  be 
disbanded.  It  was  reserved  for  the  Oregon  troops  to  rescue  us. 

The  only  demonstration  made  by  Major  Ilaines,  resulted  in  showing 
his  utter  incapacity  to  command  in  the  field.  As  has  heretofore  been 
said,  his  expedition  against  the  Yakimas  effected  nothing  but  driving  the 
Indians  into  the  very  country  through  which  I  must  pass  to  reach  the 
settlements. 

I  therefore  prefer  charges  against  Gen.  Wool.  I  accuse  him  of  utter 
and  signal  incapacity,  of  criminal  neglect  of  my  safety.  I  ask  for  an  in 
vestigation  into  the  matter,  and  for  his  removal  from  command. 

After  making  my  arrangements  in  the  Walla  Walla  valley,  I  pushed 
to  Vancouver,  coming  down  the  trail,  the  river  being  still  closed,  con 
ferred  with  Major  Ilaines,  and  then  hastened  to  Olympia  as  rapidly  as 
possible,  reaching  my  home  on  the  19th  January.  The  Legislature  were 
still  in  session,  the  greatest  alarm  prevailed  throughout  the  Sound.  The 
people  were  living  in  block  houses.  The  enemy  had  gained  the  ad 
vantage,  and  the  regulars  and  volunteers  had  retired  before  them.  Keiii- 
forcements  were  coming  from  the  other  side  of  the  mountains  to  the  hos 
tile  Indians.  In  obedience  to  my  own  convictions  of  duty,  and  in  res 
ponse  to  the  sentiments  of  this  entire  community,  I  issued  my  proclama 
tion,  calling  for  six  companies  of  volunteers  for  the  defense  of  the  Sound 
—appointed  enrolling  officers  for  the  raising  of  three  companies  on  the 
Columbia  river,  to  operate  east  of  the  Cascades,  and,  after  remaining  in 
my  office  but  ten  days,  went  down  the  Sound  to  visit  the  friendly  Indians, 


67 

confer  with  the  inhabitants,  and  make  the  necessary  arrangements  for  the 
troops  to  take  the  field. 

Since  my  arrival  on  the  Sound,  Seattle  has  been  attacked,  and  every 
thing  ontside  of  its  line  of  defences  burned,  except  a  small  place  named 
Alki,  on  the  same  bay  with  Seattle.  The  whole  county  of  King  has  been 
devastated.  Rumors  of  all  the  places  being  attacked,  have  reached  us 
daily.  The  Northern  Indians  have  commenced  making  depredations. 
They  are  meditating  to  send  16  war  canoes  against  us.  These  canoes  carry 
75  men  each,  and  can  be  urged  with  great  velocity  through  stormy  seas. 
To  meet  which  dangef ,  I  have  requested  Capt.  Gansevoort,  now  com 
manding  the  naval  forces  of  the  Sound,  to  keep  the  steamer  "  Active " 
cruising  between  Port  Townsend,  Bellingham  Bay  and  Seattle,  and  I  have 
advised  Gov.  Douglass,  of  Vancouver's  Island,  of  the  fact,  and  requested 
him  to  keep  one  of  the  Hudson's  Bay  Steamers  cruising  in  the  waters  of 
his  jurisdiction,  and  to  keep  me  advised  of  the  movements  of  the  Indians 
alleged  to  be  hostile. 

I  have  also  raised  a  force  of  friendly  Indians  to  operate  against  the 
hostiles.  They  are  already  in  the  field  :  are  supported  by  the  available 
strength  of  the  Northern  battalion  of  the  Washington  territory  volun 
teers,  and  have  struck  two  decisive  blows.  The  Central  battalion  have 
moved  from  this  quarter,  and  are  now  establishing  a  depot  at  Montgom 
ery's  :  will  on  Friday  or  Saturday  move  on  the  Puyallup,  and  will  be  re 
inforced  by  friendly  Indians. 

The  most  cordial  relations  exist  between  myself'  and  Lt.  Col.  Casey, 
commanding  the  Puget  Sound  district,  who  appreciates  fully  the  immin 
ence  of  our  danger,  and  who  urges  me  to  push  into  the  field  all  the  vol 
unteers  in  my  power.  We  shall  act  in  concert  throughout. 

Since  my  arrival  at  the  Sound,  I  have  re-visited  the  Columbia  river, 
and  conferred  with  Col.  Wright,  9th  Infantry,  in  command  of  the  Co 
lumbia  river  district.  By  letter,  I  have  urged  both  Col.  Wright  and  Ma 
jor  Raines,  previously  in  command  of  the  district,  to  dispatch  troops  to 
the  interior.  They  are  not  permitted  to  do  so  by  the  stringent  orders  of 
Gen.  Wool,  and  knowing  the  necessity  of  prompt  action,  I  have  had  no 
alternative  but  to  call  out  volunteers. 

In  Col.  Wright  I  have  entire  confidence,  and  if  he  were  allowed  to 
act  according  to  his  own  judgment,  there  would  be  nothing  to  apprehend. 
But  it  seems  to  be  the  determination  of  Gen.  Wool  to  play  the  part  of 
the  dog  in  the  manger — neither  to  act  himself,  nor  to  let  others  act. 

As  coinmander-in-chief  of  the  militia  of  Washington,  and  in  view  of 
my  oath  of  office,  I  have  taken  the  responsibility  to  act ;  every  energy 
will  be  devoted  to  the  work.  The  Indians  now  hostile  on  this  side  of  the 


68 

mountains  will  soon,  I  trust,  be  struck,  and  peace  restored  to  our  dis 
tracted  land. 

For  my  full  views  in  reference  to  operations  east  of  the  Cascades,  I 
enclose  a  copy  of  a  memoir  which  I  have  addressed  to  Gen.  Wool,  with 
extracts  of  a  letter  to  Col.  Wright,  modifying  my  views  in  certain  par 
ticulars,  in  consequence  of  the  lateness  of  the  season,  and  the  condition  of 
affairs  on  the  Sound. 

I  also  send  a  copy  of  my  message  to  the  legislature,  and  of  the  mes 
sage  of  Gov.  Mason,  when  that  legislature  first  assembled. 

Gov.  Mason  will  soon  be  in  Washington,  froin.  whom  you  will  be  able 
to  gain  every  information  which  this  office  could  furnish. 
I  have  the  honor  to  remain, 

Yery  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Sup.  Ind.  Affairs. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASHINGTON,          ) 
Olympia,  March  9,  1856.      ) 

Hon.  JEFFERSON  DAVIS,  Secretary  of  War, 

Washington,  D.  C. : 

SIR  :— - Referring  to  my  previous  communication,  setting  forth  the  ne 
cessity  of  calling  out  volunteers  to  protect  our  settlements,  and  co-ope 
rate  with  the  regular  troops  in  waging  war  upon  the  hostile  Indians,  I 
have  the  honor  to  submit  for  the  information  of  the  department,  the  pres 
ent  condition  of  the  volunteer  service. 

The  general  plan  of  operation  and  the  staff  arrangements  made  to 
give  efficiency  to  the  service,  will  be  shown  in  General  Orders  No.  4,  here 
with  enclosed. 

It  will  thus  appear  that  three  battalions  are  to  operate  against  the 
enemy. 

The  Northern  battalion  is  now  rendezvousing  at  the  falls  of  the 
Snoqualmie,  will  number  about  ninety  men,  will  be  supported  by  Pat  Ka- 
nim  and"  his  band  of  nearly  one  hundred  friendly  Indians.  This  battalion 
is  ordered  to  establish  block  houses  on  the  prairie  above  the  falls  of  the 
Snoqualmie,  and  on  Cedar  creek  ;  will  be  supplied  with  sixty  days'  provis- 


69 

ions,  and  will  prevent  the  Indians  either  crossing  the  mountains  by  the 
two  passes  of  the  Snoqualmie,  or  going  down  the  Snohomish  to  tamper 
with  the  friendly  Indians  on  the  reservations. 

The  Central  battalion,  under  Major  Gilmore  Hays,  is  now  estab 
lished  at  Council's  prairie,  on  the  south  side  of  White  river.  A  block 
house  and  a  corral  have  been  built,  and  the  communication  with  the  same 
is  secured  by  a  ferry  and  block  house  on  the  Puyallup,  and  by  block 
houses  at  Montgomery's  and  on  the  Yelm  prairie.  They  have  one  hun 
dred  days'  supplies  of  provisions,  taken  in  by  ox  teams,  which  have  since 
been  withdrawn,  and  will  immediately  establish  block  houses  at  the  cross 
ing  of  White  river,  to  communicate  with  the  regular  forces  under  the 
command  of  Lt.  Col.  Casey,  on  the  Muckleshoot  prairie,  and  at  Porter's, 
higher  up  on  White  river.  The  cordial  relations  between  the  regulars 
and  volunteers  referred  to  in  my  last  communication,  still  continue.  I 
have  every  assurance  that  the  volunteers  will  do  their  duty. 

The  department  will  observe  that  one  of  the  companies  is  a  company 
of  Pioneers.  They  are  experienced  axemen,  and  have  rendered  the  most 
efficient  service  in  opening  roads  and  building  blockhouses.  The  war  will 
be  emphatically  a  war  of  block  houses. 

In  the  movement  of  the  regular  troops  upon  the  Muckleshoot,  a  de 
cisive  battle  was  fought  with  the  Indians,  in  which  the  latter  were  sig 
nally  defeated.  Their  establishment  at  Porter's  has  since  been  broken  up, 
and  they  have  been  driven  towards  Green  river.  If  they  continue  their 
retreat  further,  they  will  be  met  by  the  volunteers  and  friendly  Indians  of 
the  Northern  battalion. 

The  Southern  battalion  is  still  organizing,  but  their  movement  to  the 
ulterior  will  be  delayed  for  a  short  tune,  in  consequence  of  my  finding 
myself  obliged  to  order  over  one  company  to  the  defence  of  the  Sound. 
A  band  of  hostiles,  under  the  notorious  Quiemuth,  had,  unknown  to  us2 
established  themselves  in  the  Nisqually  bottom,  within  twelve  miles  of  this 
place,  and  the  garrison  at  Steilacoom.  We  became  aware  of  their  presence 
one  week  since,  they  having  on  that  day  killed  one  of  our  citizens.  One  of 
the  teamsters  had  been  for  some  days  missing,  and  that  he  also  had  been 
killed,  was  ascertained  the  same  day.  The  whole  force  of  the  Central 
battalion  except  15,  was  then  in  the  Indian  country  on  White  river.  Im 
mediately  an  express  was  dispatched  to  the  Columbia  river,  ordering 
Capt.  Maxon's  mounted  company  to  the  Sound,  and  to-night  his  company 
will  be  at  Jackson's,  ninety  miles  on  the  road.  The  rapidity  of  the  move 
ment  is  the  best  evidence  of  the  necessity  of  action,  and  the  disposition 
.of  the  troops  to  obey  orders.  In  the  meantime,  I  have  raised  the  force 
of  15  men  to  sixty,  and  in  addition,  have  sent  twenty-nine  friendly  Indi 
ans  into  the  field.  These  Indians  are  led  by  experienced  white  men. 


70 

The  hostiles  have,  within  ten  days,  driven  off  much  stock,  and  have 
alarmed  our  entire  settlement.  We  hope  soon  to  route  them.  It  is  nec 
essary  to  have  considerable  guard  to  all  our  teams.  The  mail  from  the 
Columbia  came  in  on  Friday  with  an  escort  of  4  men. 

The  danger  is  not  so  much  from  the  harm  which  this  band  may,  of 
its  own  strength  do,  as  it  numbers  not  over  40  warriors,  but  from  the  fa 
cility  with  which  they  may  communicate  with  the  friendly  Indians  on  the 
reservations,  and  stir  them  up  to  hostility. 

Seattle  is  held  by  a  company  of  volunteers,  consisting  of  40  odd 
men,  commanded  by  the  Chief  Justice  of  the  territory,  Lieut.  Col.  Lan 
der. 

Lone  Tree  Point,  which  commands  a  trail  from  the  camp  of  the  hos 
tiles  to  the  Sound,  whence  they  may  communicate  with  the  reservations,  is 
also  held  by  a  volunteer  force  of  ten  men.  They  have  built  a  suitable 
block  house. 

Our  people  are  not  dismayed.  Wherever  4  families  are,  they  will 
build  a  block  house,  hold  it  against  the  Indians,  and  endeavor  to  get  in 
their  crops.  Over  one-half  of  the  able  bodied  men  on  the  Sound  are 
bearing  arms.  Our  people  have  patriotically  placed  at  the  disposal  of 
the  authorities  all  their  available  means.  We  need  aid  from  general  go 
vernment — ample  appropriations  to  defray  the  expenses  of  the  war. 

I  have  refused  to  receive  into  service  a  single  man  for  local  defence. 
All  are  enlisted  for  six  months,  subject  to  the  orders  of  the  Executive. 
In  this  way,  an  effectual  stop  has  been  put  to  any  attempt  to  enroll  troops 
for  nominal  service,  with  a  view  of  extorting  pay  and  rations  from  the 
government. 

I  am,  very  respectfully,  your  most  obedient  servant, 
(SignedJ  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Wash.  Ter. 


[No.  1.] 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASHINGTON,      \ 
Olympia,  March  21st.,  1856.  ) 


Hon.  JEFFERSON  DAVIS,  Secretary  of  War, 

Washington  City  : — 

SIR  : — In  my  two  reports  of  February  19th,  and  March  9th,  I  laid 
before  the  department  the  circumstances  of  my  return  from  the  Blackfoot 


71 

country  :  the  condition  of  the  territory,  and  the  measures  taken  by  me 
to  call  out  volunteers,  and  to  apply  them  to  the  prosecution  of  the  war. 
I  now  propose  to  lay  before  the  department  a  full  view  of  the  whole  mat 
ter,  and  to  indicate  the  measures  which,  in  my  judgment,  are  still  neces 
sary  to  protect  these  distant  settlements,  and  to  inflict  that  summary 
chastisement  upon  the  Indians,  demanded  both  by  their  unprovoked  atro 
cities,  and  the  permanent  peace  of  the  country. 

I  have  caused  two  maps  to  be  prepared — one  of  the  country  west  of 
the  Cascades,  showing  the  points  now  occupied  by  that  portion  of  the 
friendly  Indians  who,  for  five  months,  have  been  under  the  charge  of  local 
agents — the  lines  occupied  by  the  regular  troops  now  in  the  field,  under 
the  command  of  Lt.  Col.  Casey  ;  the  point  occupied  by  the  naval  forces; 
the  lines  occupied  by  the  volunteer  forces  now  in  the  field  ;  the  block 
houses  occupied  by  our  citizens  ;  the  lines  of  supplies  ;  the  depots  for 
their  protection  ;  the  country  occupied  by  the  hostiles  ;  the  lines  over 
which  reinforcements  can  come  to  them  from  east  of  the  Cascades,  and 
one  of  the  country  east  of  the  Cascades,  showing  the  tribes,  the  lines  of 
communication,  and  the  points  at  the  latest  advices  occupied  by  the  hostiles. 
The  number  of  souls  and  warriors  will  be  shown  on  this  map. 

The  settlements  are  now  so  secured  by  blockhouses,  that  the  citizens 
will  hold  them  even  should  every  Indian  on  the  Sound  become  hostile, 
and  be  reinforced  by  large  bands  from  the  north. 

The  whole  country  on  the  eastern  shore  of  the  Sound,  from  the  Skoo- 
kum  Chuck  to  the  Snohomish,  is  a  war  ground.  No  friendly  Indian  is 
allowed  there  unless  he  has  a  pass  from  an  authorized  agent,  stating  his 
special  business,  or  he  be  connected  with  the  military  or  naval  service. 
Two  parties  of  Indian  auxiliaries  are  now  in  the  field,  besides  which,  quite 
a  number  of  Indians  are  employed  as  guides,  and  in  canoe  service. 

I  will  give  a  condensed  view  of  the  present  condition  of  the  military 
operations  on  the  Sound. 

1.  The  regular  troops  now  occupy  the  Muckleshoot  prairie  as  their 
central  position.     The  line  of  communication  to  Steilacoom  is  secured  by 
a  block  house  and  ferry  at  the  crossing  of  the  Puyallup.     A  company  has 
been  sent  to  Seattle  to  move  up  the  Dawamish  and  open  a  communication 
with  the  central  position.     A  blockhouse  will  be  established  at  the  mouth 
of  Cedar  creek,  and  probably  at  John  Thomas'.     The  force  under  Lt. 
Col.  Casey  has  been  very  active,  and  this  gallant  officer  has  made  the 
most  favorable  impression  upon  our  people. 

2.  The  naval  forces  occupy  Seattle.     This  place  is  also  held  by  a 
company  of  volunteers,  who,  for  some  days,  have   been  under  orders  to 
occupy  the  line  of  the   Dewamish,  and  who,  in  that  duty,  will  co-operate 
with  the  company  sent  there  by  Lt.  Col.  Casey. 


72 

3.  The  Northern  battalion  have  their  head  quarters  at  Fort  Tiltoii, 
near  the  falls  of  the  Snoquahnie.     They  number  about  90  white  men,  and 
about  the  same  number  of  friendly  Indians  under  Pat  Kanim.     They  will 
establish  block  houses  at  the  prairie  above  the  falls,  and  on  Cedar  creek, 
and  will  extend  their  scouts  to  the  Muckleshoot  and  Dewamish. 

4.  To  circumscribe  the  field  occupied  by  the  enemy,  I  have  sugges 
ted  to  Capt.  Swartwout,  in  command   of  the  naval  forces,  a  joint  opera 
tion  upon  the  lake  back  of  Seattle.     A  block  house  to  be  built  on  the 
lake  at  the  nearest  point  to  Seattle,  a  good  road  opened  with  Seattle, 
and  boats  from  the  navy  with  one  hundred  men  to  be  placed  on  the  lakes. 
Capt.  Swartwout,  does  not,  however,  by  his  instructions,  feel  authorized 
either  to  co-operate  with  the  military  authorities  of  the  territory,  or  to 
take  part  in  any  operation  carrying  his  force  away  from  the  immediate 
shores  of  the  Sound.     I  enclose  a  copy  of  my  letter  to  Capt.  Swartwout, 
and  his  reply  thereto. 

5.  The  Central  battalion  have  their  head  quarters  at  Connell's 
prairie,  and  at  Porter's.     Their  communication  with  the  rear  is  secured 
by  a  block  house  and  ferry  at  the  crossing  of  the  Puyallup,  and  block 
houses  at  Montgomery's,  at  the  Yelrn  prairie,  at  Nathan  Eaton's,  and  at 
Lowe's.     The  battalion  numbers  in  the  field,  including  the  garrison  of 
Yelrn  and  Montgomery,  and  the  crossing  of  the   Puyallup,  about  150 
men. 

6.  Our  supplies   are  drawn  mainly  from  the   country  between  this 
point  and  the  Cowlitz  Landing.     The  route  is  well  secured  by  block 
houses. 

7.  Lone  Tree  Point  is  also  held  by  a  volunteer  force  of  ten  men. 
It  guards  several  important  trails. 

8.  Bellingharn  Bay  has  its  block  house,  defended  by  15   men  of 
Capt.  Peabody's  company. 

9.  The  Southern  battalion,  on  its  arrival  on  the  Sound,  will  be  for  the 
most  part  dismounted,  and  sent  to  re-inforce  the  Central  battalion.     The 
two  battalions  will  then  operate  up  White  river   towards  the   Nachess 
pass,  co-operating  with  Lt.  Col.  Casey. 

The  map  of  the  country  east  of  the  Cascades  will  show  the  large 
number  of  Indians  already  hostile,  or  who  may  be  incited  to  hostility — 
the  ease  with  which  they  may  communicate  with  each  other — the  great 
number  of  excellent  trails — the  large  extent  of  country  embraced  in  the 
theatre  of  operations,  and  the  facility  with  which  reinforcements  can  be 
sent  over  the  Cascades. 

Hence  the  importance  of  the  most  vigorous  and  decisive  blows,  to 
get  possession  of  the  whole  country  east  of  the  Sound,  now  infested  with 
the  savages,  and  to  hold  in  our  hands  the  routes  over  the  Cascades,  be- 


73 

fore  they  become  practicable  in  May,  and  hence  the  necessity  of  the  most 
vigorous  measures  east  of  the  Cascades,  in  order  that  the  Indians  may  be 
simultaneously  struck  in  the  Yakiina  country. 

It  is  probable  that  the  hostile  Indians  rather  exceed  the  minimum 
estimate  of  two  hundred  men,  as  stated  hi  my  letter  to  Gen.  Wool,  a  copy 
of  which  has  been  sent  to  the  department,  but  I  do  not  think  they  will  be 
found  to  exceed  three  hundred  men. 

Their  head  quarters  have  been  on  the  Muckleshoot  prairie,  now  oc 
cupied  by  Lt.  Col.  Casey,  and  now  they  have  moved  up  either  White  or 
Green  river.  But  there  are  bands  also  on  the  lake  back  of  Seattle,  and 
probably  up  Cedar  creek. 

The  map  will  show  that  even  the  hostiles  are  only  within  a  four 
hour's  distance  of  every  reservation.  There  are  many  trails  known  only 
tp  the  Indians,  and  it  will  not  be  possible  in  any  contingency,  entirely  to 
prevent  communication. 

From  the  hostile  camps,  marauding  parties  can  steal  out,  and  turn 
ing  the  heads  of  the  Puyallup  and  Nesqually,  they  can,  in  from  6  to  12 
hours,  strike  any  settlement  from  Steilacoom  to  the  Cowlitz  Landing. 
More  than  this,  there  are  places  where  they  can,  on  this  line  of  settle 
ments,  establish  themselves,  and  for  many  days  defy  our  efforts  to  drive 
them  out. 

Consider  the  face  of  the  country,  prairies  and  heavy  timber,  and 
many  streams,  almost  impenetrable  brushwood  on  the  banks,  and  heavy 
drift  along  the  shore.  There  is  not  a  road  or  trail  of  twenty  miles  in 
the  whole  Sound  country  which  does  not  afford  one  or  more  excellent  am 
buscades, 

Between  this  place  and  Cowlitz  Landing  are  two  Indian  reservations, 
the  Chehalis  and  Cowlitz.  The  former  can  easily  be  incited  to  hostility, 
and  number  a  little  more  than  100  warriors  :  we  know  some  three  or 
four  men  who  are  endeavoring  to  stir  up  the  tribe  to  war.  My  plan  has 
been  to  get  up  a  small  auxiliary  force  of  some  15  of  the  best  of  the 
tribe,  who  make  scouts  every  few  days  to  the  head  of  the  Skookurn 
Chuck.  It  has  been  found  to  work  well.  The  difficulty  is,  that  if  the 
men  of  the  tribe,  believed  to  be  in  alliance  with  Leschi,  were  summarily 
disposed  of,  the  tribe  would  break  out.  We  have  no  positive  evidence, 
except  the  impression  of  their  commander,  Capt.  Ford,  who  is  of  opinion 
that  in  his  late  trip,  two  of  the  men  tried  to  kill  him.  He  has  great  dar 
ing  and  presence  of  mind,  and  he  believes  that  he  can  prevent  an  out 
break. 

So  of  the  reservation  opposite  Olympia.  Lieut.  Gosnell  has  made 
one  scout  in  the  Nesqually  bottom  of  ten  days,  with  14  Indians.  Yes 
terday  morning  he  started  out  on  a  scout  of  three  days  with  thirty  Indi- 
10 


74 

ans.  The  effect  of  the  first  scout  was  salutary.  Such  I  doubt  not  will 
be  the  effect  of  the  second,  yet  in  the  first  scout  Lieut.  Gosnell  went  with 
his  life  in  his  hands.  Some  of  his  Indians  were  more  than  suspected,  and 
he  went  with  them  alone. 

The  most  melancholy  feature  of  the  war  is,  that  the  Indians  who 
have  taken  the  lead  in  murdering  our  men,  our  women  and  our  children, 
were  those  who  had  received  the  most  favors  from  the  whites,  and  were 
held  by  them  in  the  most  consideration.  Many  cases  have  occurred  of 
Indians  killing  their  friends  and  benefactors.  Are  you  surprised  that  a 
general  distrust  of  all  Indians  pervades  the  public  mind?  Therefore,  con 
sider  the  task  which  has  been  imposed  upon  the  territorial  authorities  to 
see  to  it  that  the  Indians  not  taking  part  with  the  hostiles  are  treated  as 
friends. 

In  short,  this  whole  country  is  a  frontier,  within  a  few  hours  of  the 
camp  of  the  hostile  Indians,  and  with  four  thousand  friendly  Indians  in 
our  midst  of  whose  faith  we  cannot  be  certain. 

Our  safety  lies  in  two  things.  1st.  To  carry  the  war  against  the 
hostiles  with  the  whole  force  of  the  territory,  and  to  bring  them  to  un 
conditional  submission.  And,  2nd.  To  give  no  cause  of  offense  to  the 
friendly  Indians,  even  in  the  case  of  persons  more  than  suspected. 

You  have  served  in  an  Indian  country,  and  know  something  of  Ii> 
dian  modes  of  thinking,  and  can  appreciate  that  when,  in  a  contest  like 
this,  troops  have  once  entered  the  field,  they  must  not  be  withdrawn  till 
they  have  accomplished  the  object  for  which  they  were  sent  into  the  field. 
There  must  be  no  change  of  plans.  We  must  push  forward  and  do  the 
work  we  have  undertaken,  else  the  Indian  will  say  he,  has  driven  us  from 
the  field,  and  thereby  get  large  accessions  from  the  tribes  who  would  oth 
erwise  continue  friendly. 

Gen.  Wool  has  recently  visited  the  Sound,  and,  with  a  full  knowl 
edge  of  the  course  taken  by  me  in  calling  out  the  volunteers  of  the  ter 
ritory,  of  the  cordial  spirit  of  co-operation  between  Lt.  Col.  Casey  and 
myself,  and  of  the  fact  that  the  volunteers  were  actually  in  the  field  en 
gaging  the  enemy,  has  ignored,  officially,  the  necessity  of  this  ;  but  has 
practically  admitted  it  in  directing  Col.  Casey  to  make  a  requisition  upon 
me  for  two  companies  of  volunteers.  This  requisition  I  have  refused  for 
reasons  which  will  be  found  in  my  letter  to  Col.  Casey  and  Major  Gen. 
Wool  herewith  enclosed. 

Those  reasons,  it  seems  to  me,  are  conclusive,  and  they  show  the  ne 
cessity  of  removing  from  the  command  of  the  Department  of  the  Pacific, 
a  man  who  has,  by  his  acts,  so  far  as  this  territory  is  concerned,  shown  an 
utter  incapacity. 

I  will  most  respectfully  call   your  attention  to  my  letter  to  General 


75 

Wool,  and  to  his  letter,  to  which  mine  was  an  answer,  and  I  simply  ask 
that  justice  may  be  done  us. 

So  long  as  I  am  the  Governor  of  Washington,  and  till  I  receive  in 
structions  from  my  superior,  I  shall  press  on  in  the  path  indicated  in  that 
letter  to  Gen.  Wool. 

I  beg  leave  respectfully  to  re-capitulate  briefly  the  points  of  differ 
ence  : — 

1.  Gen.  Wool  states  that  the  movement  of  the  Oregon  volunteers 
was  entirely  unnecessary,  and  precipitated  the  Walla  Walla  and  other 
tribes  into  hostility. 

I  assert  that  this  movement  probably  saved  my  party  from  destruc 
tion,  and  that  the  Indians  then  hostile  had  been  so  even  before  the  Oregon 
volunteers  moved  against  them. 

V  2.  Gen.  Wool  states  that  Gov.  Curry  had  no  right  to  move  his 
troops  into  the  territory  of  Washington. 

I  assert  and  have  shown  that  the  Oregon  volunteers  fought  the  In 
dians  mainly  of  Oregon,  and  that  near  the  confines  of  the  two  territories. 

3.  Gen.  Wool  states  if  the  Oregon  volunteers  are  withdrawn,  he 
will  have  no  trouble  in  managing  affairs,  and  keeping  the  Nez  Perces 
friendly. 

I  state  officially  to  Gen,  Wool,  and  to  the  Department,  that  the  Nez 
Perces  are  in  my  hands,  and  that,  without  an  armed  man,  I  will  undertake 
to  keep  the  Nez  Perces  friendly,  if  Gen.  Wool  does  not  interfere  with  me 
in  the  management  of  those  Indians.  But  I  also  state  that  Gen.  Wool, 
hi  addition  to  his  regular  force,  will  require  the  best  efforts  of  the  Oregon 
volunteers  to  strike  stuck  blows  this  spring  and  summer,  els  will  protect 

the  settlements.     He  can  do  nothing  more.     He  must  wait  till  next  whiter 

°  i 

to  strike  blows  to  end  the  war  east  of  the  Cascades.  I  refer  to  my  me 
moir. 

The  department  will  thus  see  that  I  consider  the  war  east  of  the 
Cascades  of  great  magnitude,  and  that  it  would  have  been  vastly  greater 
were  it  not  for  the  concurrence  of  two  things.  1st.  The  movement  of 
the  Oregon  volunteers  to  the  Walla  Walla  valley,  and,  2d.  My  return 
by  the  direct  route,  and  not  by  way  of  New  York. 

It  is  simply  an  exigency  to  be  met,  and  met  by  all  the  authorities,  in 
the  spirit  of  cordial  co-operation,  looking  to  the  public  good  alone,  with 
out  any  reference  to  personal  considerations. 

I  have,  therefore,  suggested  to  Gen.  Wool  the  necessity  of  recogni 
zing  the  services  of  the  Oregon  volunteers.  But  I  expect  nothing  from 
him,  and  I  shall,  therefore,  take  my  own  course,  with  the  determination 
that,  if  disasters  occur,  not  a  tittle  of  the  responsibility  shall  be  attached 
to  me. 


76 

The  war  here  must  be  ended  as  rapidly  as  possible,  and  all  the  dis 
posable  force  kept  in  the  field  till  the  enemy's  country  is  occupied,  and  his 
force  scattered. 

All  our  horsemen  must  then  be  ready  to  cross  the  Cascades,  to  move 
against  the  hostiles,  who  may  then,  with  greatly  superior  numbers,  be  en 
countering  the  troops. 

I  have,  therefore,  ordered  all  the  troops  from  the  Columbia  valley  to 
the  Sound,  and  have  directed  a  train  of  100  pack  animals  and  40  wagons 
to  be  ready  to  cross  the  Kachess  the  last  of  May. 

I  have  ordered  that  supplies  and  transportation  be  engaged  to  place 
in  depot  at  Walla  Walla  75  days'  provision  for  250  men. 

The  Oregon  volunteers  have  crossed  Snake  river,  and  have  already 
probably  struck  the  enemy.  Should  they  succeed  in  striking,  on  their 
return,  the  enemy  in  the  Yakinia  country,  and  should  the  movement  be 
followed  up  by  the  regular  troops,  I  trust  that  my  operations  will  be  con 
fined  to  the  country  on  the  Sound. 

Should,  however,  nothing  decisive  be  done  in  the  Yakima  country  till 
the  passes  are  open,  our  situation  here  will  be  critical,  and  the  defense  of 
the  Sound,  as  regards  the  Indians  east  of  the  Cascades,  may  be  best  ao- 
complished  by  waging  war  against  them  in  their  own  country.  I  have 
looked  to  this  exigency  from  the  beginning.  Hence  volunteers  were 
raised  for  six  mouths. 

Hence  supplies  and  transportation  for  the  same  period. 

But  we  will  be  prepared  for  the  worst,  and  hope  for  the  best. 

The  following  papers  accompany  this  report  : 

1.  Copy  of  Gen.  Wool's  reply  of  Feb.  12,  1856,  to  my  memoir  to  him 

of  the  23d  Dec.,  and    29th  January.     This  memoir  has  already 
been  transmitted  to  the  War  Department. 

2.  Copy  of  my  answer  to  this  reply,  dated  March. 

3.  Copy  of  my  letter  to  Gen.  Wool  on  his  arrival  at  Steilacoon,  intro 
ducing  Adg't  Gen.  Tilton,  and  expressing  my  desire  to  co-operate 
with  the  regular  service. 

4.  Copy  of  Lt.  Col.   Casey's  letter,  calling  on  me  for  two  companies 
of  volunteers. 

5.  Copy  of  my  answer  to  the  same,  declining  to  call  out  the  compa 
nies. 

6.  Copy  of  rny  letter   to  Capt.  Swartwout,  commanding  naval  forces 
of  the  Sound,  proposing  a  combined  movement  of  the  military  and  naval 
forces. 

7.  Copy  of  Capt.  Swartwout's  letter  declining  to  co-operate. 

I  have  thus   endeavored  to  lay  before  the  department  the  condition 


77 

of  affairs,  and  the  measures  of  preparation  and  precaution  taken  by  me 
to  protect  our  suffering  people,  and  I  have  the  honor,  sir,  to  be, 
Very  respectfully,  your  most  obedient  servant, 

(Signed,)  '  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Wash.  Ter. 


[No.  8.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASH.,  ) 

OLYMPIA,  May  23d,  1856.      [ 

HON.  JEFFERSON  DAVIS, 

Secretary  of  War,  Washington  City,  D.  C. 

SIR  : — Although  the  exact  phase  "which  the  Indian  war  will  assume 
the  present  summer  is  not  yet  fully  developed,  enough  is  known  to  point 
out  clearly  the  preparations  which  should  be  made  to  meet  probable  con 
tingencies. 

I  propose,  therefore,  in  this  communication  to  set  forth  the  present 
condition  of  the  war,  and  the  measures  of  preparation  and  precaution  ta 
ken  by  me  as  the  Executive  of  the  territory,  and  the  commander-in-chief 
of  the  volunteer  force. 

1 .      The  war  in  the.  Territory  of  Washington,  west  of  fhe    Cascades. 

The  war  has  been  prosecuted  with  exceeding  vigor,  energy  and  suc 
cess.  The  Indians  have  been  defeated  in  two  battles,  one  by  the  regulars 
at  the  crossing  of  White  river,  the  other  by  the  volunteers  in  ConnelFs 
Prairie.  The  Indians  have  been  repeatedly  struck  since  by  the  regulars, 
by  the  volunteers,  and  by  the  Indian  auxiliaries.  The  country  has  been 
thoroughly  and  repeatedly  scouted  in  every  direction,  and  is  now  firmly 
held  by  block  houses  and  roads.  Two  hundred  Indians  have  been  got  in 
back  of  Seattle  by  the  volunteers,  and  those  believed  to  have  been  en 
gaged  in  the  war,  are  now  being  tried  by  a  military  commission  ordered 
by  me  at  Seattle. 

On  the  Puyallup  and  Nesqually,  the  Indians  have  been  got  in  to  the 
number  of  nearly  three  hundred.  Some  have  been  tried  by  a  commission 
ordered  by  Lt.  Col.  Casey,  others  by  a  commission  held  under  my  orders. 

The  principle  adopted  in  all  these  commissions  is  to  try  and  punish 
summarily  those  accused  and  proved  to  be  instigators  of  the  war,  and 


78 

parties  to  murders.  The  remainder  are  sent  to  the  reservations  in  charge 
of  local  agents. 

The  main  body  of  the  hostiles  have  been  driven  across  the  mountains, 
and  under  the  lead  of  Leschi,  are  in  the  camp  of  the  confederated  hostile 
force  on  the  Nachess  Pass. 

Their  spies  are  on  this  side — are  constantly  communicating  informa 
tion  to  them,  and  the  plan  of  the  hostiles  is  to  send  parties  through  differ 
ent  passes  to  lay  waste  and  burn  the  settlements. 

This  suggests  the  plan  to  be  pursued  to  meet  the  emergency— 

1.  To  move  over  the  Nachess  with  two  hundred  horsemen,  to  strike 
the  enemy  in  conjunction  with  the  regular  troops,  to  closely  pursue  and 
drive  him  across  the  Columbia.     Thus  the  war  will  be  transferred  from 
the  settlements  to  the  interior. 

2.  But  as  small  parties  may  defy  the  utmost  exertions  and  vigilance 
fof  a  -vastly  superior  force,   and  cross  the  mountains  to  the  settlements, 

troops  should  be  in  position  to  watch  the  passes,  and  at  suitable  points  in 
reserve  to  protect  a  point  unexpectedly  attacked. 

A  volunteer  force  of  one  hundred  strong  is  in  the  neighborhood  of 
the  falls  of  the  Snoqualmie,  at  the  depot  of  Fort  Tilton,  below  the  falls, 
at  a  post  on  a  large  prairie  above  the  falls,  and  at  an  advance  post  on 
Cedar  Creek.  Their  orders  are  to  watch  the  passes,  to  send  scouts  over 
across  the  mountains,  to  maintain  their  position  in  case  of  attack  by  a 
superior  force,  and  send  back  for  reinforcements. 

This  flank  is  a  very  important  one,  and  must  be  maintained  at  all 
hazards,  because  it  gives  direct  access  to  the  great  body  of  friendly  Indi 
ans  on  the  reservation,  and  if  broken,  considerable  accessions  might  ac 
crue  to  the  hostiles. 

The  regular  force,  in  conjunction  with  a  small  volunteer  company 
raised  at  Seattle,  is  now  occupying  the  country  on  White  and  Green  riv 
ers,  the  lower  portion  of  Cedar  creek,  and  the  country  about  Black  river 
and  the  Dewamish  Lake.  They  also  occupy  the  lower  crossing  of  the 
Puyallup,  and  the  country  about  Steilacoom. 

The  volunteer  force  occupies  the  country  with  posts  thence  to  Van 
couver.  The  report  and  map  already  forwarded  will  explain  where  posts 
have  been  established. 

Since  the  report  has  been  transmitted,  a  post  has  been  established  on 
South  Prairie,  a  large  block  house  built  on  the  Tenalquot  Plains,  a  short 
line  of  communication  opened  from  the  Yelm  to  Grand  Mound,  and  a 
wagon  road  nearly  pushed  through  from  the  Cowlitz  Landing  to  Monti- 
cello.  Two  ferries  have  been  established  on  the  Cowlitz. 

A  company  of  nearly  ninety  men  has  been  raised  on  the  Cowlitz.  It  is 
Divided  into  an  active  and  reserved  list.  The  former,  consisting  of  about 


forty  men,  is  constantly  engaged  on  scouting  duty  up  the  Cowlitz  rivery 
and  towards  Lewis  river  pass.  A  small  company  of  Indian  auxiliaries 
will  be  employed  with  them.  The  reserved  list  meet  once  a  week  for  in 
spection.  But  except  for  the  day  of  inspection,  they  are  not  provided 
with  rations,  nor  will  payment  for  services  be  recommended  by  me. 

It  is  here  proper  to  state  the  utmost  cordiality  pervades  between  the 
regular  and  volunteer  forces.  They  have  scouted  together,  and  have 
practically  held  the  whole  field  in  co-operation,  and  brought  about  the 
present  condition  of  things.  All  this  has  been  essentially  done  in  the 
rainy  season.  The  toils,  hardships,  and  marches,  and  the  blows  struck 
by  all  the  troops  in  heavy  rains  and  inclement  weather,  is  worthy  of  spe 
cial  commendation. 

But  the  passes  are  now  open,  leaves  are  on  the  trees,  food  is  abundant 
4"or  the  Indians.  I  consider  this  the  critical  period  of  the  war  west  of 
the  Cascades.  Let  us  look,  therefore,  to 

2^.       The  war  east   of  the  Cascades. 

It  is  not  to  be  disguised  that  the  tribes  east  of  the  mountains  thus 
far  consider  themselves  the  victors.  When  Col.  Wright  commenced  his 
march  into  the  Yakima  country  early  this  month,  they  practically  held 
the  whole  country  for  which  they  had  been  fighting.  Not  a  white  man 
now  is  to  be  found  from  the  Dalles  to  the  Walla- Walla;  not  a  house 
stands,  and  Col.  Wright,  at  the  last  advices,  was  in  the  Nachess  in  pres 
ence  of  twelve  to  fifteen  hundred  warriors,  determined  to  fight.  All  the 
confederated  bands  are  there. 

Col.  Wright  met  the  hostiles  on  the  8th  May — made  an  ineffectual 
attempt  to  treat  with  them  till  the  14th.  On  the  evening  of  the  eleventh, 
he  despatched  an  express  to  the  Dalles  for  re-inforcements,  and  on  the  13th 
or  14th,  three  companies  went  to  his  assistance,  and  probably  reached 
him  on  the  16th  or  17th  inst.  His  force  then  would  number  some  250 
effectual  men. 

If  the  Indians  are  so  emboldened  by  their  success  as  to  believe  they 
can  overcome  Col.  Wright  in  a  hard  fight,  it  will  be  fortunate,  as  the  reg 
ular  force  will  strike  a  severe  blow,  and  may  drive  them  across  the  Co 
lumbia. 

It  seems  to  me  probable  that  they  will  simply  attempt  to  harrass  and 
annoy  him,  will  steal  his  animals,  will  draw  him  further  north  into  their 
country,  will  send  parties  to  the  rear  to  compel  him  to  make  detachments, 
will  gain  time,  so  that  his  provisions  may  be  consumed)  and  reduce  his 
operations  mainly  to  occupying  a  post  or  two  and  supplying  them. 

Two  hundred  horsemen  on  the  Nachess,  well  supplied  and  mounted, 
under  a  vigorous  officer,  at  this  juncture,  will,  with  the  operation  of  the 


80 

regular  troops,  drive  him  across  the  Columbia.  This  force  I  am  now  or 
ganizing  at  camp  Montgomery.  It  will  be  ready  in  ten  days. 

In  this  view,  the  Walla  Walla  country  must  be  held ;  communication 
be  established  with  the  Nez  Perce  auxiliaries,  and  the  enemy  restricted  to 
the  country  north  of  the  Snake,  and  on  the  immediate  banks  of  the  Co 
lumbia,  north  of  the  Snake. 

I  am  organizing  a  force  of  two  hundred  men  to  occupy  the  Walla 
Walla,  One  hundred  men  are  already  at  the  Dalles.  They  will  move 
with  one  hundred  days'  provisions,  and  some  to  spare  for  the  Nez  Perces 
auxiliaries,  and  the  troops  which  may  be  concentrated  there  from  the  Ya- 
kima  country. 

The  Yakima  and  Walla  Walla  country  firmly  held,  the  passes  well 
watched  over  the  Cascades — the  main  force  of  the  enemy  on  the  Snake 
and  Upper  Columbia — we  may  then  be  able  to  disband  the  bulk  of  the 
remaining  volunteers  on  the  Sound. 

This  most  favorable  view  of  the  progress  of  the  war,  which  cannot 
be  developed  in  a  shorter  period  than  four  to  six  weeks,  will  practically 
keep  in  service  all  the  volunteers  for  their  six  months'  term  of  service,  and 
may  render  it  necessary  to  extend  the  term  on  the  part  of  those  occupy 
ing  the  Walla  Walla. 

I  cannot  too  strongly  urge  the  policy  of  accumulating  supplies  in  the 
Yakima  country  and  in  the  Walla  Walla,  in  readiness  to  Wage  a  winter 
campaign. 

On  the  first  of  November,  there  should  be  six  months'  supplies  for  all 
the  troops  in  both  the  Yakima  and  Walla  Walla  country.  There  should 
be  ample  supplies  of  forage.  There  should  be  a  post  and  ferry  at  or 
near  the  sight  of  old  Fort  Walla  Walla,  and  at  or  near  the  month  of  the 
Palouse. 

With  proper  preparations,  a  winter  campaign  can  be  waged,  and  the 
war  ended.  I  have  personal  knowledge  of  the  winter  features  of  the 
country. 

To  diminish  transportation,  make  use  of  ox  teams  :  send  forward 
salt  :  return  the  wagons  with  two  yokes  instead  of  three  :  use  fresh  and 
dried  beef  as  much  as  possible,  and  reduce  the  rations  of  flour  to  one-half 
pound  a  day. 

Troops  would  be  perfectly  healthy  with  one-third 'of  a  pound  of  flour 
per  man  each  day,  rising  fresh  or  dried  beef. 

Thus,  to  transfer  the  war  from  the  settlements  on  the  Sound  and  the 
Columbia  river  to  the  interior,  to  strike  such  blows  as  opportunities  may 
offer,  and  to  be  in  readiness  to  prepare  for  a  vigorous  winter  campaign, 
I  shall,  in  ten  days  be  ready  to  move  over  the  Nachess  with  two  hundred 


81 


horsemen  and  150  pack  animals,  and  to  the  Walla  Walla  with  two  hand- 
red  horsemen  and  100  days'  provisions. 

For  the  lower  Columbia,  a  company  has  been  organized  in  Clarke 
county.  Several  block  houses  have  been  built.  A  portion  are  constantly 
kept  scouting.  The  remainder  will  form  a  reserved  list  without  pay  or 
rations. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully,  your  ob't  servant, 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Ter.  Wash. 


[No.  9.] 

EXEC 

Olympia,  May  23,  1856 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASH.,    ) 

56.        [ 


HON.  JEFFERSON  DAVIS, 

Secretary  of  War,  Washington  City. 

SIR  : — Referring  to  my  communication  of  this  date,  setting  forth 
the  present  condition  of  the  Indian  war,  and  the  measures  of  precaution 
taken  by  me  to  meet  probable  contingencies,  I  propose  in  this  letter  to 
submit  an  estimate  of  the  probable  expenses  of  the  volunteer  service  of 
the  territory  of  Washington  to  the  first  day  of  September  next. 

There  have  been  Jwo  distinct  organizations,  one  of  three  months  at 
the  commencement  of  the  war,  the  second  of  six  months  at  the  expiration 
of  the  former. 

The  six  months  terms  commenced  late  in  January,  and  the  organiza 
tion  was  not  complete  till  early  in  April.  Latterly,  to  recruit  certain 
companies,  three  months  men  have  been  raised. 

It  is  hoped  there  will  be  no  necessity  of  raising  additional  troops,  ex 
cept  to  supply  the  ptaces  vacated  by  expiration  of  terms  of  service.  Pro 
vision  in  the  estimate  is  therefore  made  only  for  keeping  up  the  present 
organization  to  the  3-Oth  September.  A  fortunate  turn  in  the  war  may 
make  it  safe  to  very  much  diminish  the  force  at  an  early  period.  But  it 
will  not,  in  my  judgment,  be  safe  to  estimate  tipon  any  such  contingency. 

The  estimated  list  of  the  volunteer  service  will  be  as  follows  : 

1st  Organization, 
2d  Organization. 

Staff,  non-commissioned  staff,  expressmen,  guides,  &c. 
I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully,  yours  most  obedient, 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Wash.  Ter, 
11 


[No.  10.] 

EXECI 

Olympia,  June  8,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASH.,          ) 


HON.  JEFFERSON  DAVIS, 

Secretary  of  War,  Washington  City. 

SIR  : —  In  my  last  communication,  I  gave,  at  length,  my  views  and 
suggestions  in  regard  to  the  Indian  war  in  this  territory,  and  presented  the 
measures  of  precaution  which  the  present  condition  of  affairs  demanded. 

The  two  expeditions  referred  to,  one  over  the  Cascades  into  the  Yak- 
ima  country,  the  other  from  the  Dalles  to  the  Walla  Walla,  are  nearly 
ready  for  the  movements. 

Both  expeditions  I  deem  of  vital  consequence,  in  view  of  the  present 
condition  of  things  in  the  interior. 

All  the  information  which  I  have  received,  goes  to  satisfy  me  that 
unless  the  most  vigorous  action  is  at  once  taken,  all  the  tribes  from  the 
Cascades  to  the  Bitter  Root  will  be  in  the  war,  a  portion  of  the  Nez  Per" 
ces  alone  excepted. 

The  long  delay  of  Col.  Wright  on  the  Nachess,  and  his  entertaining 
propositions  of  peace  before  striking  the  enemy,  in  connection  with  the 
withdrawal  of  the  Oregon  Volunteers,  has  emboldened  the  Indians,  and 
has  probably  enabled  them  to  effect  a  general  combination  of  the  tribes. 
But  no  overt  act  has  yet  been  committed. 

The  enclosed  copy  of  a  letter  from  Lieut.  Col.  Wm.  Craig,  special 
agent  of  the  Nez  Perces,  discloses  the  condition  of  things  in  the  interior- 
It  was  written  on  the  27th  May,  and  reached  me  on  the  evening  of  the 
5th  of  June,  a  distance  by  land,  of  about  400,  and  by  water,  of  150 
miles,  or  550  miles  in  all. 

I  shall  to-morrow  push  to  the  Dalles,  and  urge  the  Walla  Walla  expe 
dition  forward  with  all  possible  dispatch.  I  trust  it  will  be  in  season.  The 
troops  all  reached  the  Dalles  on  yesterday,  but  it  was  supposed  that  a  por 
tion  of  the  animals  which  were  taken  on  the  emigrant  trail  from  the  Wil 
lamette  to  the  Dalles,  will  be  a  day  or  two  behind. 

If  the  troops  reach  the  Walla  Walla  before  an  overt  act  has  been 
committed,  I  am  certain  that  the  combination  can  be  broken  up,  and  that 
the  Nez  Perces  and  the  Indians  on  and  in  the  neighborhood  of  the  Spo- 
kanes  will  remain  friendly. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully,  your  most  obedient, 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I,  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Wash.  Ter. 


85 

[No.  11.] 

IVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WAS 
Olympia,  July  1,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASH.j.to'l 

J.         ) 


Hon.  JEFFERSON  DAVIS, 

Secretary  of  War,  Washington,  D.  C. : 

SIR  : —  The  two  columns  moving  from  the  Sound  over  the  Nachess 
Pass,  and  from  the  Dalles  up  the  Columbia,  are  probably  now  assembled 
in  the  Walla  Walla  valley.  They  are  well  mounted,  are  in  a  good  condi 
tion  of  discipline,  and  have  one  hundred  days'  supplies. 

The  force  from  the  Sound,  under  the  immediate  command  of  Lieut. 
Col.  B.  F.  Shaw,  moved  from  Camp  Montgomery,  on  Wednesday  and 
Thursday,  June  llth  and  12th,  and  crossing  the  mountains  with  the  loss 
of  only  one  animal,  camped  on  the  Wenass  on  the  20th.  At  that  point 
Lieut.  Col.  Shaw  received  orders  from  me  to  push  to  the  Walla  Wdla, 
unite  his  force  with  that  moving  from  the  Dalles,  and  take  command  of 
the  whole. 

The  force  from  the  Dalles  moved  from  the  camp  five  miles  beyond 
the  Des  Chutes  river,  on  Wednesday,  June  25th,  and  was  expected  to 
reach  the  Walla  Walla  on  the  4th  July. 

Each  column  numbers  nearly  two  hundred  men.  The  whole  force 
consists  of  350  enlisted*  men,  and  about  one  hundred  quartermaster  and 
Indian  employees. 

From  the  Walla  Walla,  Indian  supplies  will  be  pushed  to  the  Nez 
Perces  and  Spokanes,  and  an  escort  will  accompany  them,  should  the 
simple  presence  of  a  force  in  the  Walla  Walla  valley  be  not  sufficient  to 
insure  the  safety  of  the  train,  protected,  as  it  is  expected,  it  will  be,  by 
Indian  auxiliaries. 

Letters  have  been  received  from  Lieut.  Col.  Wm.  Craig,  agent  of 
the  Nez  Perces,  of  the  29th  May,  and  8th  June,  speaking  more  favorably 
of  the  condition  of  things  in  the  interior. 

Karniaken,  at  a  council  held  with  the  Spokanes  on  the  25th  May, 
wherein  he  urged  that  tribe  to  join  the  war,  received  a  negative  to  his 
proposition.  The  Spokanes,  however,  harbor  the  hostile  Cayuses,  which  has 
caused  me  to.be  somewhat  apprehensive  of  the  sincerity  of  their  professions. 

I  was  at  the  Dalles  from  Saturday,  June  14th,  to  Monday,  June 
30th,  getting  the  expedition  off  and  collecting  information  in  relation  to 
the  Indians.  At  that  time  the  hostile  bands  were  much  scattered.  Some 
three  hundred  hostiles  were  at  the  head  of  John  Day's  river  ;  a  large  camp 
of  hostiles,  supposed  to  be  the  Walla  Wallas  under  the  son  of  Peu-pee- 
mox-mox,  were  at  Fort  Walla  Walla.  The  Cayuses  were  on  the  Spo 
kane.  The  Clickatats  aad  Yakimas  were  on  the  Pischouse  river,  and 


84 

probably  small  parties  at  Priest's  Rapids.  The  large  camp  reported  by 
Lt.  Col.  Craig,  in  his  letter  of  May  27th,  and  composed  of  individuals  of 
several  tribes  including  the  Snakes,  I  have  no  information  that  they  have 
moved  from  the  place  wh'ere  they  were  when  Col.  Craig  wrote. 

There  were  Snakes  with  the  party  at  the  head  of  John  Day's  river, 
and  the  force  was  increasing. 

It  is  proposed  to  strike  the  party  at  the  head  of  John  Day's  river, 
by  a  force  of  about  ]75  men,  consisting  of  100  volunteers  of  Oregon,  un 
der  Major  Layton,  and  75  volunteers  of  Washington,  under  Gapt.  Goff. 

The  plan  was  to  move  from  Well  Springs  on  the  30th  of  June,  which 
point  is  on  the  emigrant  road,  some  85  miles  from  the  Dalles. 

Lieut.  Col,  Shaw,  in  moving  to  Walla  Walla,  will  strike  the  hostiles 
wherever  he  finds  them. 

On  occupying  the  Walla  Walla  valley,  he  is  also  directed  to  spare 
no  exertions  to  reduce  to  unconditional  submission  any  hostiles  within 
reach. 

This  decisive  policy  is  believed  by  me  indispensable  to  secure  the 
permanent  peace  of  the  Indian  .country. 

Very  truly  and  respectfully,  your  most  obedient  servant, 

(Signed,;  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Ter.  Wash. 


[No.  12.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASH.,         ) 
Olympia,  July  24,  1856.      ) 

Hon.  JEFFERSON  DAVIS, 

Secretary  of  War,  Washington,  D.  C.  : 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  report  that  the  volunteer  troops  that  have 
been  called  into  service  on  the  Sound  are  now  being  disbanded. 

I  propose  simply  for  a  limited  period  to  keep  on  the  line  of  Snoqual- 
mie  a  small  company  of  about  50  or  60  men,  and  at  the  head  of  the 
Sound  at  the  Yelm  and  Tenalquot  Plains,  some  forty  men. 

It  is  possible  that  a  small  force,  say  some  twenty  men,  may  be  re 
quired  at  Bellingham  Bay. 

In  consequence  of  the  killing  of  a  Northern  Indian  at  Steilacoom, 
some  two  weeks  since,  by  some  soldiers  from  the  garrison  in  a  drunken 


m 

frolic,  the  tribe  are  greatly  exasperated,  and  have  threatened  to  make  re 
prisals.  In  consequence,  a  small  force  of  15  men  has  been  sent  to  Whid- 
by's  Island  from  the  line  of  the  Snoqualmie.  The  naval  forces,  however, 
are  attending  vigilantly  to  the  matter,  and  the  two  steamers,  the  Massa 
chusetts  and  John  Hancock,  are  cruising  diligently. 

The  trouble,  it  is  hoped,  will  be  soon  allayed.  Lieut.  Col.  Casey  is 
using  every  exertion  to  bring  to  justice  the  soldiers  who  committed  the 
offense. 

The  volunteer  forces  east  of  the  mountains  met  on  Mill  creek,  in  the 
Walla  Walla  valley,  on  the  8th  inst.  The  Nez  Perces  are  entirely 
friendly,  and  it  is  believed  the  Spokanes  will  also  continue  friendly. 

Truly  and  respectfully, 
(Signed,;  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Ter.  Wash. 

[STo.  13.] 


VANCOUVER,  W.  T.,  Aug.  14,  1856. 

Hon.  JEFFERSON  DAVIS, 

Secretary  of  War,  Washington  City,  D.  C.: 

SIR  : — In  my  last  communication  relating  to  the  Indian  war  in  this 
territory,  I  dwelt  upon  the  proposed  Walla  Walla  expedition  as  abso 
lutely  indispensable  to  preserve  the  peace  of  the  Indian  .tribes  of  the  in 
terior,  and  I  expressed  the  opinion  that  the  indecision  and  procrastinating 
course  pursuing  and  pursued  in  the  Yakima  country,  had  brought,  or 
nearly  brought  about  a  general  combination  of  the  tribes  eastward.  That 
combination  I  hoped  to  break  up. 

The  Walla  Walla  expedition  has  been  completely  successful.  Col. 
Shaw  was  on  Mill  creek,  Walla  Walla,  on  the  8th  of  July,  with  all  his 
command,  except  a  force  of  75  men  under  Capt.  Goff,  who,  in  conjunc 
tion  with  Maj.  Layton,  of  the  Oregon  volunteers,  had  ascended  John 
Day's  river,  and  were  then  actively  in  pursuit  of  the  enemy.  On  Mill 
creek  were  assembled  on  that  day  190  men,  who  crossed  the  Cascades 
over  the  Nachess  under  the  immediate  orders  of  Lt.  Col.  Shaw  ;  100 
men  from  the  command  of  Goff,  who  escorted  the  wagon  and  pack  train 
from  the  Dalles,  and  the  Nez  Perces  auxiliaries,  60  strong,  under  the  com 
mand. of  .the  chief,  the  Spotted  Eagle,  and  accompanied  by  the  agent, 
Lt.  Col.  Wm.  Craig. 


86 

Supplies  were  immediately  sent  forward  to  the  Nez  Perces  country, 
special  agent  Robie  taking  there  100  pack  animals  without  an  escort. 

Col.  Shaw  learning  there  was  a  large  force  of  hostiles  in  the  Grand 
Ronde,  determined  to  attack  them.  Moving  in  the  night  of  the  14th,  he 
struck  them  on  the  17th,  and  after  a  running  fight  of  some  15  miles,  he 
entirely  defeated  them,  capturing  a  large  number  of  their  animals,  des 
troyed  nearly  all  their  provisions,  and  also  got  possession  of  about  one 
hundred  pounds  of  ammunition. 

This  gallant  fight  of  Shaw  has  broken  up  the  combination,  for,  on 
his  return  to  Mill  creek,  he  found  there  special  agent  Robie,  who  had 
almost  been  driven  out  of  the  Nez  Perces  country.  He  brought  back 
the  words  of  the  chiefs  ordering  white  men  out  of  the  country,  &c.  Ro 
bie,  on  his  return  from  the  Nez  Perces,  marched  one  hundred  miles  with 
out  halting. 

Lieut.  Col.  Shaw  immediately  sent  the  Nez  Perce  Chief,  "Capt.  John," 
to  the  Nez  Perces  with  this  message  :  "  I  am  your  friend.  I  have  not 
come  to  fight  you,  but  the  hostiles.  But  if  you  beat  your  drums  for  war, 
I  will  parade  my  men  for  battle. " 

On  the  arrival  of  Capt.  "John,"  the  Nez  Perces  had  heard  of  Col. 
Shaw's  defeat  of  the  Indians  in  the  Grand  Ronde,  and  they  immediately 
sent  back  the  most  friendly  messages. 

Thus  has  the  vigorous  movements  of  the  volunteers  of  Washington, 
under  Lieut.  Col.  Shaw,  secured  the  fealty  of  the  Nez  Perces,  and  pre 
vented  a  general  combination  of  the  interior  tribes. 

I  enclose  Lt.  Col.  Shaw's  report  of  his  engagement  with  the  Indians 
at  the  Grand  Ronde,  and  also  a  copy  of  his  letter  stating  the  message 
he  sent  to  the  Nez  Perces  by  "  Capt.  John."  Also  the  records  of  three 
councils  held  with  the  Nez  Perces,  one  by  Lt.  CoL  Shaw  on  his  arrival 
at  Mill  creek  ;  one  in  the  Nez  Perce  country  by  Capt.  Robie  ;  and  one 
by  Lt.  Col.  Craig  when  they  received  Shaw's  message  through '  Capt.  John/ 

On  an  interview  held  yesterday  with  Col.  Wright,  I  learn  that  he 
designs  sending  forward  a  force  of  four  companies  to  occupy  the  Walla 
Walla  under  the  command  of  Lt.  Col.  Steptoe.  I  shall  accordingly  raise 
no  more  troops.  The  terms  of  service  of  those  under  CoJ.  Shaw  will  ex 
pire  on  the  8th  of  September.  On  being  relieved  by  the  command  under 
Col.  Steptoe,  they  will  be  withdrawn  and  mustered  out  of  service. 

All  the  troops  on  the  Sound  have  been  mustered  out  of  service. 

I  push  forward  in  person  to  Walla  Walla  to-morrow  to  meet  the  In 
dians,  and  establish  relations  of  friendship  with  the  tribes  generally,  and 
especially  those  struck  by  Lieut.  Col.  Shaw. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully,  your  most  ob't  servant, 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Ter.  Waih. 


{No.  14.] 

EXECUTIVE  < 

October  22d,  1856 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMFIA,  W.  T., ) 


%  Hon.  JEFFERSON  DAVIS, 

Secretary  of  War,  Washington  D.  C.: 

SIR  : — In  my  report  of  the  14th  August,  informing  you  of  the  suc 
cessful  operations  of  the  volunteers  under  Lt.  Col.  Shaw,  and  my  having 
determined  to  raise  no  more  troops,  in  consequence  of  four  companies  of" 
regulars  under  Lt.  Col.  Steptoe  being  about  to  be  sent  to  the  Walla 
Walla,  I  expressed  the  opinion  that  the  Nez  Perces  would  probably  con 
tinue  friendly,  and  advised  you  that  I  should  push  forward  to  the  Walla 
Walla  to  meet  the  tribes  in  council. 

In  this  connection,  I  will  refer  you  to  Shaw's  report  of  the  victory 
of  the  Grand  Ronde — his  message  to  the  Nez  Perces  on  learning  they 
had  given  evidence  of  hostility,  and  the  records  of  three  several  councils 
held  with  the  Nez  Perces  by  Lt.  Col.  Shaw,  Capt.  Robie,  and  Lieut.  Col 
Craig,  respectively,  all  going  to  establish  the  fact  that  the  Nez  Perces, 
much  disaffected  previously,  preferred  friendship  on  meeting  the  volun 
teers  on  Mill  creek — exhibited  hostility  when  Capt.  Robie  was  in  their 
country,  and  again  sent  friendly  messages  on  learning  the  decisive  blow 
struck  at  the  Grand  Ronde. 

It  was  in  view  of  the  proceedings  at  the  first  council  held  with  the 
Nez  Perces  by  Shaw  on  Mill  creek,  that  I  expressed  the  opinion  in  my 
letter  of  the  24th  July,  that  they  were  friendly,  and  of  the  effect  of  a 
decisive  victory,  in  connection  with  their  expressions  at  the  third  council 
in  reply  to  Shaw's  message,  that  I  believed  that  friendship  had  been  con 
firmed,  and  the  general  combination  broken  up,  as  reported  in  my  commu 
nication  of  Aug.  14th. 

I  appointed  the  council  when  I  had  just  learned  of  the  battle  of 
the  Grand  Ronde,  and  of  Capt.  Robie  having  been  almost  driven  out  of 
the  Nez  Perces  country. 

On  reaching  the  Walla  Walla  valley,  to  which  point  trains,  with  In 
dian  and  army  supplies  were  on  their  way  under  Capt.  Robie,  I  made  the 
necessary  arrangements  for  sending  home  the  volunteers  to  be  mustered 
out  of  service  on  the  arrival  in  the  valley  of  the  regular  troops  under 
Lieut.  Col.  Steptoe. 

On  the  29th  July,  one  of  my  pack  trains,  mostly  laden  with  Indian 
supplies,  waa  captured  by  the  Indians,  a  most  unfortunate  occurrence,  as 
thereby  much  of  the  prestige  of  the  Grand  Ronde  was  lost. 

Lieut.  Col.  Steptoe's  force  was  encamped  in  the  valley  on  the  5th 
September,  some  five  miles  below  the  council  ground. 


88 

> 

Capt.  Robie,  with  the  remaining  pack  train  and  a  large  wagon  train 
of  Indian  supplies,  reached  the  valley  on  the  7th  September,  and  on  the 
three  following  days,  the  Nez  Perces  and  all  the  hostile  bands,  except  the 
Yakima,  reached  the  valley  and  encamped  near  me. 

On  the  evening  of  the  10th,  the  .Indians  being  all  in  except  the.Ya- 
kimas,  and  none  friendly  except  a  portion  of  the  Nez  Perces,  and  orders 
having  been  given  to  all  the  volunteers  to  go  home  the  next  day,  I  made 
a  requisition  upon  Lieut.  Col.  Steptoe  for  two  companies  of  his  troops  and 
his  mountain  howitzers,  and  to  my  surprise,  learned  from  his  answer,  that 
he  had  moved  his  camp  to  a  point  on  Mill  creek,  some  seven  or  eight 
miles  above  my  camp,  and  that  his  orders  from  Gen.  Wool  did  not  allow 
him  to  comply  with  my  requisition. 

I  say  to  my  surprise,  for  in  my  interview  with  Col.  Wright  at  Van 
couver,  referred  to  in  my  report  of  the  14th  August,  I  understood,  as  I 
went  to  the  interior  in  my  capacity  simply  of  superintendent  of  Indian 
affairs,  that  in  effecting  the  objects  of  the  council,  I  was  to  have  the  co 
operation  of  the  military  force  he  was  about  to  send  there — a  co-operation 
which  the  good  of  the  service  most  urgently  demanded.  I  had  already 
raised  nearly  two  hundred  six  months'  man  to  strengthen  the  command  of 
Lieut.  Col.  Shaw,  under  a  proclamation  issued  immediately  after  the  re 
ceipt  of  the  battle  of  the  Grand  Ronde,  and  I  had  four  months'  supplies 
to  subsist  them.  This  proclamation  was  revoked  on  my  arrival  at  Van 
couver,  and  the  troops  raised  under  it  disbanded.  In  interviews  held  af 
terwards  with  Col.  Wright  at  the  Dalles,  I  dwelt  upon  the  objects  to  be 
gained  by  the  council — referred  to  the  effect  of  the  presence  of  his  troops 
there,  and  left  with  the  belief  that  it  was  an  arranged  and  agreed  on  thing 
between  the  Colonel  and  myself,  that  I  was  to  have  the  countenance 
and  support  of  the  regular  force  in  the  Walla  Walla  to  carry  into  effect 
the  beneficent  designs  of  the  council.  Col.  Wright  stated  that  other  du 
ties  would  prevent  his  accompanying  me — that  he  had  entire  confidence 
in  Lieut.  Col.  Steptoe,  the  officer  in  command,  and  his  presence  would  be 
unnecessary.  Accordingly,  previous  to  Lt.  Col.  Steptoe  reaching  the 
valley,  I  sent  him  two  letters,  each  urging  him  to  camp  near  me,  my  object 
being  to  show  the  Indians  the  strength  of  our  people,  and  the  unity  of 
our  councils  ;  and  I  also  wrote  Capt.  D.  Russell,  on  his  way  from  the  Ya 
kima  with  three  companies,  to  the  same  effect.  On  the  arrival  of  Lieut. 
Col.  Steptoe  in  the  valley,  I  urged  him  personally  to  camp  near  me. 

The  requisition  was  refused,  and  I  was  therefore  obliged  to  counter 
mand  the  order  sending  home  the  volunteers  whose  terms  of  enlistment 
had  all  expired,  and  of  which  only  Golfs  company,  69  rank  and  file,  re 
mained,  a  portion  of  whom,  too,  were  on  their  way  down,  and  had  to  be 
called  back,  This  force  only  remained  to  guard  my  camp. 


89 

The  council  opened  on  the  llth,  and  continued  on  the  12th  and  13th, 
when  so  alarming  was  the  condition  of  affairs,  that  I  deemed  it  my  duty, 
on  the  morning  of  the  13th,  to  address  a  confidential  note  to  Steptoe, 
advising  him  that  one  half  of  the  Nez  Perces  were  unquestionably  hos 
tile — that  all  the-  other  tribes  were  hostile,  with  a  very  few  exceptions, 
and  that  a  company  of  his  troops  was  essential  to  the1  security  of  my 
camp,  and  at  his  suggestion,  I  moved  my  party,  train  and  supplies,  with 
Golfs  company  of  volunteers,  to  the  vicinity  of  his  camp. 

I  met  Kamiakan  and  his  followers  on  my  way  there,  and  it  is  prob 
ably  owing  to  no  one  being  advised  of  my  intention  to  move  till  the  order 
was  given  an  hour  before  I  started  that  I  was  not  attacked  on  the  road. 
Kamiakan  had  unquestionably  an  understanding,  as  subsequent  events 
showed,  with  all  the  Indians  except  the  friendly  Nez  Perces,  (aboat  one 
half  the  nation )  and  a  small  number  of  friendly  Indians  of  the  other 
tribes,  to  make  an  attack  that  day  or  evening  upon  my  camp.  He  found 
me  on  the  road  to  his  groat  surprise,  and  had  no  time  to  perfect  his  ar 
rangements.  I  had  learned  in  the  night  that  Kamiak-an  had  encamped 
on  the  Touchet  the  night  before,  and  that  he  would  be  in  this  day. 

The  council  r3-opened  oa  the  16th:  all  the  Indians  were  camped 
near.  Kamiakan  and  his  band  being  only  separated  from  the  council 
ground  by  the  narrow  skirt  of  woods  in  the  bottom,  of  mill  creek,  and 
was  closed  the  next  day,  all  my  efforts,  both  to  make  an  arrangement  with 
the  hostiles,  and  to  do  away  With  the  disaffection  of  the  Nez  Perces  hav 
ing  proved  abortive. 

On  the  18th,  at  a  separate  council  with  the  Ncz  Perces,  all,  both 
hostile  and  friendly  Nez  Peroes,  advised  the  sub-agent,.  Wm.  Craig,  not 
to  return  to  the  Nez  Perce  country,  as  his  life  would  be  in  danger,  and 
they  were  afraid  he  would  be  killed. 

At  the  conclusion  of  this  council,  in  a  brief  address  to  the  Indians, 
I  expressed  my  regrets  that  I  had  failed  in  my  mission — that  no  one  said 
"yes,"  to  my  propositions,  and  I  now  had  onjy  to  say,  "follow  your  own 
hearts  :  those  who  wish  to  go  into  war,  go." 

My  propositions  were  unconditional  submission  to  the  justice  and 
mercy  of  the  government,  and  the  rendition  for  trial  of  murderers. 

In  the  afternoon  Lieut.  Col.  Steptoe  informed  these  Indians  that  he 
came  there  to  establish  a  post,  not  to  fight  them,  and  trusted  they  should 
get  along  as  friends,  and  appointed  the  next  day  a  little  after  noon,  for  a 
special  conference. 

The  Indians  did  not,  however,  come  to  see   Steptoe  at  the  time  ap 
pointed.     They  previously  set  fire  to  his  grass,  and  following  me  as  I  set 
oat  about  eleven   o'clock,  on  my  way  to  the   Dalles,  they   attacked  me 
12 


90 

within  three  miles  of  Steptoe's  camp  at  about  one  o'clock  in  the  after 
noon. 

So  satisfied  was  I  that  the  Indians  would  carry  into  effect  their 
avowed  determination  in  the  councils  in  their  own  camps  for  several 
nights  previously  to  attack  me,  that,  in  starting,  I  formed  my  whole  party, 
and  moved  in  order  of  battle. 

I  moved  on  under  fire  one  mile  to  water,  when,  forming  a  corral  of 
the  wagons,  and  holding  the  adjacent  hills  and  the  brush  on  the  stream 
by  pickets,  I  made  my  arrangements  to  Defend  my  position  and  fight  the 
Indians.  Our  position  in  a  low,  open  basin,  some  500  or  600  yards 
across,  was  good,  and  with  the  aid  of  our  corral,  we  could  defend  our 
selves  against  a  vastly  superior  force  of  the  enemy. 

The  fight  continued  till  late  in  the  night.  Two  charges  were  made 
to  disperse  the  Indians,  the  last  led  by  Lieut.  Col.  Shaw  in  person,  with 
twenty-four  men,  but,  whilst  driving  before  him  some  one  hundred  and 
fifty  Indians,  an  equal  number  pushed  into  his  rear,  and  he  was  compelled 
to  cut  his  way  through  them  towards  camp,  when,  drawing  up  his  men, 
and,  aided  by  the  teamsters  and  pickets,  who  gallantly  sprang  forward, 
he  drove  the  Indians  back  in  full  charge  upon  the  corral. 

Just  before  the  charge,  the  friendly  Nez  Perces,  fifty  in  number,  who 
had  been  assigned  to  holding  the  ridge  on  the  south  side  of  the  corral, 
were  told  by  the  enemy  "they  came  not  to  fight  the  Nez  Perces,  but  the 
whites,  go  to  your  camp,  or  we  wipe  it  out."  Their  camp  with  the  wo 
men  and  children,  was  on  a  stream  about  a  mile  distant— upon  which  I 
directed  the  Nez  Perces  to  retire,  as  I  did  not  require  their  assistance, 
and  I  was  fearful  that  my  men  might  not  be  able  to  distinguish  them  from 
the  hostiles,  and  thus  friendly  Indians  might  be  killed. 

Towards  night  I  notified  Lt.  Col.  Steptoe  that  I  was  fighting  the 
Indians:  that  I  should  move  the  next  morning,  and  expressed  the  opinion, 
that  a  company  of  his  troops  would  be  of  service.  In  his  reply  he  stated 
that  the  Indians  had  burnt  up  his  grass, 'and  suggested  that  I  should  re 
turn  to  his  camp,  and  place  at  his  disposal  my  wagons,  in  order  that  he 
might  move  his  whole  command  and  his  supplies  to  the  Umatilla,  or  some 
other  point,  where  sustenance  could  be  found  for  his  animals.  To  this 
arrangement  I  assented,  and  Lt.  Col.  Steptoe  sent  to  my  camp  Lt.  Da 
vidson,  with  detachments  from  the  companies  of  dragoons  and  artillery 
with  a  mountain  howitzer.  They  readied  my  camp  about  two  o'clock  in 
the  morning, -every  thing  in  good  order,-  and  most  of  the  men  at  the 
rorral  asleep.  A  picket  had  been  driven  in  an  hour  and  a  half  before 

ike  enemy  :  that  on  the  hill  south  of  the  corral,  but  the  enemy  was 
immediately  dislodged,  and  all  the  points  were  held,  and  ground  pits  be 
ing  dug. 


91 

The  howitzer  having  been  fired  on  the  way  out,  it  was  believed  noth 
ing  would  be  gained  by  waiting  till  morning,  and  the  whole  force  imme 
diately  returned  'to  Lt.  Col.  Steptoe's  camp. 

Soon  after  sunrise,  the  enemy  attacked  the  camp,  but  were  soon  dis 
lodged  by  the  howitzer  and  a  charge  by  a  detachment  from  Steptoe's 
command. 

On  my  arrival  at  the  camp,  I  urged  Lt.  Col.  Steptoe  to  build  a 
blockhouse  immediately — to  leave  one  company  to  defend  it  with  all  his 
supplies,  then  to  march  below,  and  return  with  an  additional  force  and 
additional  supplies,  and  by  a  vigorous  winter  campaign,  to  whip  the  Indi 
ans  into  submission.  I  placed  at  his  disposal  for  the  building,  my  teams 
and  Indian  employees. 

The  blockhouse  and  stockade  were  built  in  a  little  more  than  ten 
4ays.  My  Indian  store  room  was  re-built  at  one  corner  of  the  stockade. 

On  the  23d  Sept.,  we  started  for  the  Dalles,  which  we  reached  on 
the  2d  October.  Nothing  of  interest  occurred  on  the  road. 

In  the  action  of .  the  19th,  my  whole  force  consisted  of  GofFs  com 
pany  of  sixty-nine  rank  and  file,  and  the  teamsters,  herders  and  Indian 
employees,  numbering  about  fifty  men.  Our  train  consisted  of  about  five 
hundred  animals,  not  one  of  which  was  captured  by  the  enemy.  We 
fought  four  hundred  and  fifty  Indians,  and  had  one  man  mortally,  one 
dangerously,  and  two  slightly  wounded.  We  killed  and  wounded  thir 
teen  Indians. 

One  half  the  Nez  Perces,  one  hundred  and  twenty  warriors,  all  of 
the  Yakirnas  and  Palouses,  two  hundred  warriors  ;  the  great  bulk  of  the 

Cayuses  and   Umatillas,  warriors  ;  of  the  Walla  Wallas  and 

Indians  from  other  bands  were  in  the  fight.  The  principal  war  chiefs 
were  the  son  of  Ouhi,  and  Isle  de  Pere  chief,  Quiltomee  ;  the  latter  of 
whom  had  two  horses  shot  under  him,  and  who  showed  me  a  letter  from 
Col.  Wright,  acknowledging  his  valuable  services  hi  bringing  about  the 
peace  of  the  Yakimas. 

I  have  failed,  therefore,  in  making  the  desired  arrangements  with  the 
Indians  in  the  Walla  Walla,  and  the  failure,  to  be  attributed  in  part  to 
the  want  of  co-operation  with  me  as  Superintendent  of  Indian  Affairs,  on 
the  part  of  the  regular  troops,  has  its  causes  also  in  the  whole  plan  of 
operations  of  the  troops  since  Col.  Wright  assumed  command. 

The  Nez  Perces,  entirely  friendly  last  December  and  January,  be 
came  first  disaffected  in  consequence  of  the  then  chief  of  the  Cayuses, 
Ume-howlish,  and  the  friendly  Cayuses  going  into  the  Nez  Perce  country, 
contrary  to  my  positive  orders.  I  refused  to  allow  them  to  go  there  in 
December  last,  saying  to  them  :  "  I  have  ordered  the  Nez  Perces  to  keep 
hostiles  out  of  their  country.  If  you  go  there,  your  friends  in  the  war 


92 

party  will  eome,  they  cannot  be  kept  out.  Through  them  disaffection 
will  spread  among  a  portion  of  the  Nez  Perires."  Ume-howlish,  my 
prisoner,  was  sent  into  the  Nez  Perce  country  by  Col.  Wright,  and  from 
the  time  of  his  arrival  there,  all  the  efforts  made  by  the  agent,  Craig,  to 
prevent  the  spread  of  disaffection,  were  abortive.  What  I  apprehended 
and  predicted  already  came  to  pass. 

The  Looking  Glass,  the  prominent  man  of  the  lower  Nez  Perces, 
endeavored  to  betray  me  on  the  Spokane-  as  I  was  coming  in  from  the 
Blackfoot  council,  and  I  was  satisfied  from  that  time  that  he  was  only 
awaiting  a  favorable  moment  to  join  bauds  with  Kamiakan  in  a  war 
upon  the  whites. 

Col.  Wright's  management  of  affairs  in  the  Yakima  furnished  the 
opportunity.  The  war  commenced  in  the  Yakima  on  our  part  hi  conse 
quence:  of  the  attempt  first  to- seize  the  murderers  of  the  agent,  Bolon, 
and  the  miners  who  had  passed  through  their  country  ;  and,  second,  to 
punish  the  tribe  for  making  common  cause  with  them  and  driving  Major 
IIaller  out  of  the  country.  It  is  greatly  to  be  deplored  that  Col.  W right 
had  not  first  severely  chastised  the  Indians,  and  insisted  upon  not  only 
the  rendition  of  the  murderers,  but  upon  the  absolute  and  unconditional 
submission  of  the  whole  tribe  to  the  justice  and  mercy  of  the  govern 
ment. 

The  long  delays  which  occurred  in  the  Yakima,  the  talking  and  not 
fighting,  this  attempt  to  pacify  Indians  and  not  reducing  them  to  submis 
sion,  thus  giving  safe  conduct  to  murderers  and  assassins,  and  not  seizing 
them  for  summary  and  exemplary  punishment,  gave  to  Kamiakan  the 
whole  field  of  the  interior,  and  by  threats,  lies  and  promises,  he  has 
brought  into  the  combination  one  half  of  the  Nez  P.erccs  nation,  and 
the  least  thing  may  cause  the  Spokanes,  Cceur  d'Alenes,  Colvilles  and 
Okinikanes  to  join  them. 

I  state  boldly,  that  the  cause  of  the  Nez  Perces  becoming  disaffected 
and  finally  going  into  the  war,  is  the  operations  of  Col.  Wright  east  of 
the  Cascades — operations  so  feeble,  so  procrastinating,  so  entirely  unequal 
to  the  emergency,  that  not  only  has  a  most  severe  blow  been  struck  at 
the  credit  of  the  government  and  the  prosperity  and  character  of  this 
remotb  section  of  country,  but  the  impression  has  been  made  upon  the 
Indians  that  the  people  and  the  soldiers  were  a  different  people.  I  repeat 
to  you  officially,  that  when  the  Indians  attacked  me,  they  expected  Col. 
Steptoe  would  not  assist  me,  snd  when  they  awoke  from  their  delusion, 
Kamiakan  said,  "I  will  now  let  tliese  people  know  who  Kamiakan  is." 
One  of  the  good  effects  of  the  fight  is,  that  the  Indians  have  learned  that 
we  are  one  people^  a  fact  which  had  not  previously  been  made  apparent 
to  them  by  the  operations  of  the'  regular  troops. 


93 

Is,  sir,  the  army  sent  here  to  protect  our  people,  and  to  punish  In 
dian  tribes  who,  without  cause,  and  in  cold  blood,  and  in  spite  of  solemn 
treaties,  murder  our  people,  burn  our  houses  and  wipe  out  entire  settle 
ments? 

Is  it  the  duty  of  Gen.  Wool  and  his  officers  to  refuse  to  co-operate 
with  me  in  my  appropriate  duties  as  Superintendent  of  Indian  Affairs, 
and  thus  practically  to  assume  these  duties  to  themselves? 

Is  it  the  duty  of  Geu.  Wool,  in  h'is  schemes  of  pacifying  the  Indians, 
to  trample  down  the  laws  of  congress — to  issue  edicts  prohibiting  settlers 
returning  to  their  claims,  and  thus  for  at  least  one  county,  the  Walla 
Walla,  make  himself  dictator  of  the  country? 

Or,  is  it  simply  in  consequence  of  his  ignorance  of  the  laws  of  con 
gress,  and  the  peculiar  circumstances  under  which  these  territories  Lave 
grown  up,  that  he  has  undertaken  to  say  to  a  people  of  a  whole  county, 
the  Walla  Walla  having  its  representative  in  the  legislature,  "the  Indians 
drove  you  away,  you  shall  not  go  baek?"  I  beg  leave,  herewith  to  en 
close  a  copy  of  a  communication  orchis  subject,  which  I  havj  this  day 
addressed  to  the  department  of  the  Interior. 

I  will  respectfully  call  your  attention  to  my  report  of  this  date  to 
the  commissioner  of  Indian  Affairs  giving  an  elaborate  account  of  Indian 
operations  east  of  the  Cascade  mountains,  including  the  proceedings  at 
the  Walla  Walla  council,  and  I  will  conclude  this  communication  by  the 
following  extracts  from  it: 

"  In  this  connection  it  is  my  duty  to  report  to  the  Department  the 
admirable  conduct  of  the  volunteers  and  the  Indian  employees,  hot  only 
during  the  council,  but  in  all  the  operations  east  of  the  Cascade  mount 
ains.  There  was  not  a  single  instance  of  injury  either  tot  the  person  or 
property  of  a  friendly  Indian,  or  of  injury  to  the  property  or  person  of 
the  hostiles  during  the  council. 

"The  kindness  and  forbearance  of  officers  and  men,  agents  and  em 
ployees,  even  when  treated  with  rudeness  by  the  hostiles,  was  extraor 
dinary.  The  strayed  cattle  and  horses  of  the  Indians  were  herded  and 
returned  to  them.  The  volunteers-  were  well  supplied,  and  were  not 
tempted  to  *  plunder  for  assistance.  I  have  the  permission  of  Lt.  Col. 
Steptoe  to  refer  to  him  and  his  officers  as  witnesses  of  what  I  have  stated, 
and  have  the  assurance  from  Lt.  Col  Steptoe  that  he  had  so  reported  it 
"  Whilst  it  is  my  duty  to  acknowledge  in  the  warmest  terms  the 
assistance  rendered  me  by  Lt.  Col.  Steptos,  when  I  was  actually  attacked, 
to  Col.  Wright,  and  of  Col.  Wright  that  he  had  forwarded  the  report 
to  Geu.  Wool."  1  am,  sir,  very  respectfully  your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  L  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Washington  Territory, 


94 

-';•:?  -  "  .  ".-.-•;  .       •  >&  ;    -MV.  **.;>*>•.-*  :  .*&    ;A 

[No.  15.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASHINGTON,      ) 
Olympia,  Nov.  21st.,  1856.  j 

Hon,  JEFFERSON  DAVIS, 

Secretory  of  War,  Washington,  D.  C. : 

SIR  : — Referring  to  my  communication  of  tlie  22d  October,  giving 
the  particulars  of  the  council  held  by  me  at  the  Walla  Walla,  the  previ 
ous  month,  and  my  views  in  reference  to  the  operations  of  the  regular 
troops  under  Col.  Wright,  I  have  now  to  report  that  I  learn  from  reliable 
authority,  though  not  from  Col.  Wright  himself,  that,  in  his  recent  trip 
to  Walla  ^  Walla,  he  met  the  Nez  Perces  chief  who  attacked  my  party, 
and  effected  another  quasi  peace  by  surrendering  to  their  demands.  My 
informant  states  that  "some  chiefs,  Eagle  from  the  Light,  Red  Wolf,  &c., 
met  Col.  Wright  in  a  "talk"  the  other  day.  The  Colonel  took  the  ground 
which  I  urged  you  to  take, — that  tfce  treaty  of  Walla  Walla  ought  not 
to  be  insisted  upon." 

Now  the  Red  Wolf  and  Eagle  from  the  Light  belonged  to  the  hos 
tile  party.  Red  Wolfs  people  were  in  the  attack  upon  me  after  the  ad 
journment  of  the  council.  The  Eagle  from  the  Light,  though  hostile, 
brought  none  of  his  people  to  the  council  ground. 

It  would  seem  that,  to  get  the  consent  of  Col.  Wright  to  take  the 
ground  that  a  treaty  should  not  be  insisted  upon,  it  was  simply  necessary 
for  the  malcontents  to  attack  the  Superintendent  of  Indian  Affairs  and 
his  party.  Now  one  half  of  the  Nez  Perces  nation,  including  the  head 
chief,  Lawyer,  wish  the  treaty  to  be  carried  out.  They  have  suffered 
much  from  their  steadfast  adherence  to  it.  Are  their  wishes  to  be  disre 
garded? 

It  seems  to  me  that  we  have,  in  this  territory,  fallen  upon  evil  times. 
I  hope  and  trust  some  energetic  action  may  be  taken  to  stop  this  trifling 
with  great  public  interests,  and  to  make  our  flag  respected  by  the  Indians 
of  the  Interior.  They  scorn  our  people  and  our  flag.  They  feel  they 
can  kill  and  plunder  with  impunity.  They  denominate  us  a  nation  of  old 
women.  They  did  not  do  this  when  the  volunteers  were  in  the  field. 

I  now  make  the  direct  issue  with  Col.  Wright, — that  he  has  made  a 
concession  to  the  Indians  which  he  had  no  authority  to  make — that,  by 
so  doing,  he  has  done  nothing  but  to  get  the  semblance  of  a  peace,  and 
that  by  his  acts  he  has,  in  a  measure,  weakened  the  influence  of  the  ser 
vice  having  the  authority  to  make  treaties,  and  having  charge  of  the 
friendly  Indians.  He  has,  in  my  judgment,  abandoned  his  own  duty, 


which  was  to  reduce  the  Indians  to  submission,  and  has  trenched   upon 
and  usurped  a  portion  of  mine. 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  Territory  Washington. 


[No.  16.] 
<  *  *  • 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  W.  T., 

OLYMPIA,  Nov.  21,  1856.  ) 

Hon.  JEFFERSON  DAVIS, 

Secretary  of  War,  Washington,  D.  C. : 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  report  for  the  information  of  the  depart 
ment  that  the  sales  of  property  remaining  on  hand  at  the  disbandment  of 
the  volunteer  forces  of  this  territory  have  been  made,  and  have  resulted 
m  the  cancelling  of  about  one  hundred  and  fifty  thousand  dollars  of  scrip. 
The  sales  in  the  aggregate  exceeded  the  original  cost,  particularly  as  re 
gards  animals,  which  it  has  been  alleged  have  been  purchased  at  extrava 
gant  rates.  I  trust  that  hereafter,  in  view  of  the  fact  that  our  transpor 
tation  has  cost  us  nothing — that  our  people  have  let  their  animals  go  into 
the  service  from  three  to  nine  months  and  have  taken  them  back-  at  a 
premium,  the  enemies  of  the  territory  will  be  more  guarded  in  their  speech. 

All  the  papers  have  been  kept  with  regularity,  both  as  regards  the 
service  of,  and  issued  to  volunteers,  and  purchases  and  sales  by  the  quar 
termaster's  department. 

Our  whole  scrip  will  not  exceed  nine  hundred  and  fifty  thousand 
dollars,  which,  deducting  the  cancelled  scrip,  will  leave  not  exceeding 
eight  hundred  thousand  dollars  to  be  redeemed. 

But  some  seventy  or  eighty  thousand  of  this  will  be  charged  upon 
the  muster  rolls,  reducing  the  scrip  that  amount,  and  the  estimates  for 
the  pay  of  the  volunteers. 

I  indulge  the  hope  congress  will,  at  this  session,  authorize  the  pay 
ment  of  the  war  debt  of  both  territories.  The  people  deserve  well  of 
the  nation.  They  have  protected  their  families  and  vindicated  the  honor 
of  the  American  flag. 


96 

The  war  has  been  especially  disastrous  to  this  territory,  and  the  peo 
ple  need  prompt  payment  of  their  claims. 

Very  respectfully,  your  most  obedient  servant, 

(Signed,)  '  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Wash.  Ter. 


[No.  17.] 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASH., 

OLYMPIA,  Nov.  21,  1856. 


Hon.  JEFFERSON  DAVIS, 

Secretary  of  War,  Washington  City  : 

SIR  : — As  a  part  of  the  history  of  Indian  relations  in  this  territory 
the  past  two  years,  I  enclose  a  copy  of  a  letter  which,  learning  that  Gen, 
Wool  had  just  arrived  at  Vancouver,  I  addressed  him  on  the  ^2d  day  of 
May,  1855,  the  second  day  after  my  arrival  at  Walla  Walla  last  year, 
and  some  six  days  before  going  into  the  council  which  resulted  in 
treaties  of  cession  from  the  Nez  Pcrces,  Yakimas,  Cayuses,  Walla  Wal 
las  and  UmatillaSi 

Gen.  Wool,  however,  returned  to  San  Francisco,  where  my  letter 
reached  him,  and  I  passed  to  the  sources  of  the  Missouri.  I  have  never 
received  any  answer  to  my  letter. 

I  had  previously  in  a  letter  to  you,   dwelt  upon   the  importance  of 
the  occupation  of  the  Walla  Walla. 
I  have  the  honor  to  remain, 

Very  respectfully,  your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Sup.  Ind.  Affairs. 


97 

,-    "££• 

[No.  18.] 

*•  — •  ...••-. 

EXECUTIVE  OFFI 

Olympia,  Feb.  17,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASHINGTON, 


His  Excellency,  G.  L.  CURRY, 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief : 

SIR: — I  have  appointed  Col.  B.  F.  Shaw,  with  whom  you  are  ac 
quainted,  assistant  adjutant  general  for  this  territory. 

He  has  been  instructed  to  organize  at  Vancouver  a  force  of  two 
hundred  mounted  volunteers,  who  will  be  pushed'  into  the  Walla  Walla 
with  all  possible  dispatch,  there  to  establish  a  depot,  leaving  a  small  force 
to  guard  it,  and  then  push  forward  to  the  Yakima  Mission,  taking  with 
them  a  large  supply  of  provisions  and  ammunition.  At  that  point  they 
can  establish  a  post  of  considerable  strength,  and  be  in  position  to  act 
efficiently  against  any  Indians  in  that  valley. 

Our  captains  who  are  recruiting  in  the  vicinity  of  Vancouver  will  no 
doubt  wish  to  pass  into  Oregon,  and  I  trust  that  the  hearty  co-operation 
and  friendly  feeling  which  has  existed  between  the  citizens  of  the  two  ter 
ritories  will  continue,  and  that  they  may  receive  any  required  aid.  I  feel 
sure  that  there  will  be  cordial  co-operation. 

With  sentiments  of  the  highest  respect, 

Very  truly  yours, 
(SignedJ  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Commander-iii-Chief. 


NOTE. — Letters  of  similar  import  to  the  foregoing  letter  to  Governor 
Curry,  were  at  the  same  time  addressed  to  the  staff  officers  of  Oregon — 
the  adjutant,  quartermaster  and  commissary  generals,  which  were  res 
ponded  to,  as  in  the  following  letter  from  the  commissary  general. 


[No.  19.] 

.  COMMISSARY  GENERAL'S  OFFICE,  COMMISSARY'S  DEP'T,      ) 

Portland,  Feb.  20th,  1856.  ) 

His  Excellency,  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  Washington  Territory: 

DEAR  SIR  : — I  received  yours  of  the  17th  February,  '56,   informing 
me  of  the  appointment  of  Col.  B.  F.  Shaw,  as  assistant  adjutant  general 
13 


98 

of  Washington  Territory,  and  your  desire  to  have  me  co-operate  with 
your  efforts  to  procure  supplies,  transportation,  &c.,  &c.,  in  Oregon  ;  and 
also  your  wish  to  push  your  forces  as  speedily  as  possible  to  the  Walla 
Walla  and  the  Yakima  vallies.  It  will  give  me  great  pleasure  to  render 
what  assistance  is  in  my  power,  to  you  or  any  officer  under  your  directions, 
to  further  your  very  laudable  object,  and  I  will  confer  with  Gen.  Shaw 
upon  the  subject,  without  delay. 

I  am,  &c., 
( Signed,)  M.  M.  McCARVER, 

Com.  Gen'l  0.  M.  T. 


[No.  20.] 

TERRITORY 

Salem,  March  27th,  1856. 


TERRITORY  OF  OREGON,  EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,    I 


His  Excellency,  I.  I,  STEVENS, 

Governor  W.  T.,  Olympia  : 

DEAR  GOVERNOR  : — I  have  authorized  Mr.  Bradbury,  who  starts5  to 
day  from  this  place  for  San  Francisco,  to  call  upon  your  Quartermaster's 
Department  at  Portland,  and  in  connection  with  such  supplies  as  he  pur 
chased  for  us  at  that  place,  to  do  likewise  for  Washington  Territory,  as 
might  be  more  fully  indicated  and  specified  by  the  officer  upon  whom  I 

desired  him  to  call  at  Portland. 

*  *  *  *  •          *  #  #  * 

Yours  always  sincerely, 
(Signed,)  GEO.  L.  GURRY, 

Gov.  &c.,  &c. 


[No.  21.] 

TERRITORY  OP 

Salem,  March  29th,  1856. 


TERRITORY  OP  OREGON,  EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,     I 


His  Excellency,  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Washington  Territory,  Olympia  : 

DEAR  GOVERNOR  : — I  arrived  here  this  morning,  prepared  to  act  as 
intelligence  from  the  Cascades  would  appear  to  demand.     I  found  that 


99 

my  aids,  Col.  Dennison  and  Stark,  had  taken  very  prompt  and  judicious 
action  in  the  premises.  Col.  Dennison,  with  the  volunteers  who  went  up 
for  the  purpose  of  relieving  the  blockhouse,  and  re-establishing  the  com 
munication,  which,  through  some  great  military  mistake,  the  officer  in 
command  of  the  regulars  had  made  no  provision  to  maintain,  at  a  point 
so  important  as  the  Cascades,  too,  having  rendered  important  assistance 
in  achieving  the  object  of  the  expedition,  returned  this  afternoon. 

I  enclose  you  a  list  of  the  killed  and  wounded  and  missing.  Col. 
Dennison's  force  was  augmented  to  double  its  members,  by  citizens  of 
your  territory,  making  the  force  some  forty-five  men. 

JfC  3f»  3fC  3fC  3|»  *(C  *fC  5fC 

Yours  always  sincerely, 

(Signed,)  GEO.  L.  CURRY, 

*i  '  Governor,  &c.,  &c. 


[No.  22.] 

EXEC 

Olympia,  April  2d,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASH.,      ) 


His  EXCELLENCY,  GEO.  L.  CUERY, 

Governor  of  Oregon : 

MY  DEAR  SIR  : — I  am  much  obliged  for  the  information  contained 
in  your  two  letters  of  the  27th  and  29th  of  March,  and  especially  for 
your  active  exertions  in  helping  the  cause  of  the  suffering  inhabitants  of 
Washington. 

I  hope  Oregon  will  never  require,  by  the  breaking  out  of  war  among 
her  Indians  hereafter,  a  requital  of  those  services.  But  Washington  will 
never  forget  the  aid  she  has  received  from  Oregon,  nor  will  she  fail  to 
A'emember,  and  if  unhappily  necessary,  requite  them  hereafter. 

Your  thoughtfulness  in  thinking  of  us  when  you  sent  to  San  Fran 
cisco,  deserves  my  especial  thanks. 

*         *  I  shall  use  every  exertion  to  raise  more 

troops  for  the  defense  of  our  people  from  the  Cowlitz  to  the  Cascades, 
and  with  the  view  of  being  prepared  at  all  quarters  for  any  attack  by  the 
Indians  upon  the  settlements. 

Very  truely,  your  friend, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Ter.  Waih. 


100 

[No.  23.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASH.,    ) 
Olympia,  Nov.  1st.,  1856.        ) 

Hon.  JAMES  DOUGLASS, 

H.  B.  M.  Governor: — 

1 1    Ar"5  '  "' '  '.-*'•  •-,-'%. 

Sm  :— It  having  been  made  apparent  to  us  that  the  Indians  inhab 
iting  both  sides  of  the  Cascades  have  a  determined  combination  among 
their  various  tribes  to  make  war  upon  us,  and  as  they  have  been  suffi 
ciently  bold  to  attack  us  within  a  short  distance  of  our  settlements,  I 
deem  it  proper  as  we  are  in  great  need  of  arms  and  ammunition,  to  re 
quest  from  you,  sir,  what  assistance  is  in  your  power  to  afford. 

Your  known  courtesy  to  Americans  generally,  and  the  feeling  our 
people  know  you  entertain  towards  us,  leads  me  to  make  this  request  with 
the  less  hesitation.  I  do  it  also  that  it  may  be  made  apparent  to  the  sav 
ages  upon  the  Sound  that  the  affinities  of  blood  and  interest  existing  be 
tween  our  nations,  are  always  sufficiently  strong  to  bring  forth  from  the 
one  to  the  other,  support  when  threatened  with  danger.  , 

If  it  could  be  done  without  serious  injury  to  the  affairs  of  your  Hon. 
H.  B.  Co.,  I  would  deem  it  an  additional  service  that  the  arms  should 
be  sent  here  by  one  of  your  steamers,  as  you  are  aware  our  settlements 
are  so  isolated,  the  presence  of  steamers  such  as  yours,  may  deter  attacks 
which  I  have  reason  to  think  may  be  made  upon  one  or  more  of  them  in 
a  few  days. 

The  presence  of  a  steamer  in  this  part  of  the  Sound  will  be  of  great 
advantage. 

The  Active  and  Massachusetts  are  expected  in  the  Sound  in  a  few 
days,  and  the  arrival  of  ,one  of  these  vessels  will  relieve  us  from  trespass 
ing  farther  upon  your  kindness. 

Such  services  as  you  may  render,  sir,  will,  I  beg  to  assure  you,  be 
most  warmly  appreciated  by  the  government  of  the  United  States,  as 
well  as  the  inhabitants  of  this  territory. 

With  assurances  of  my  highest  respect, 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  ob't  servant, 
fSignedJ  JAMES  T1LTQN, 

Adj't  Gen.  W,  T. 


ffHw  //  ."  , 


101 

[No.  24.] 

VICTORIA,  VANCOUVER'S  ISLAND,         ) 
November  6th,  1855.  } 

Hon.   JAMES  TILTON, 

Adj't  Gen.  W.  T.  V.,  Washington  Territory  : — 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  a  letter  from 
you,  dated,  "Olympia,  November  1st,"  representing  the  danger  to  which 
the  settlements  on  Puget  Sound  were  exposed  from  the  inroads  of  sav 
ages,  and  soliciting  aid  in  arms  and  munitions  for  the  purpose  of  defend 
ing  the  country,  and  repelling  the  threatened  invasion  of  the  Indian  tribes. 

I  most  cordially  acknowledge  the  moral  obligation  which  binds 
Christian  and  civilized  nations  to  exert  their  utmost  power  and  influence 
m  checking  the  inroads  of  the  merciless  savage,  and  it  is  a  cause  of  sin 
cere  regret  on  my  part  that  our  means  of  rendering  you  assistance  comes 
infinitely  short  of  our  wishes. 

We  are,  I  confess  with  sorrow,  badly  prepared  for  the  exigencies  of 
a  state  of  warfare — there  being,  at  this  moment,  only  one  hundred  stand 
of  arms  in  this  colony,  and  those  are  in  the  stores  of  the  Hudson's  Bay 
Company. 

I  have  made  a  purchase  of  fifty  of  those  (all  that  can  be  spared)  for 
your  service,  and  now  forward  them  by  Captain  Hunt,  under  consignment 
to  Dr.  Tolmie,  who  will  arrange  with  you  about  their  delivery.  I  have 
also  secured  ten  barrels  of  gun  powder  and  a  supply  of  ball,  a  part  of 
which  will  also  be  now  forwarded  by  the  steamer,  "Traveller." 

Her  Majesty's  ship,  "  President,"  sailed  about  a  week  ago,  from  this 
colony,  for  the  port  of  San  Francisco,  or  I  might  have  procured  efficient 
aid  from  her  commander. 

The  Hudson's  Bay  Company's  steam  vessels  are  also  both  absent  at 
this  time,  or  I  would  instantly  have  despatched  one  of  them  to  Nisqually, 
not  of  course  in  the  character  of  a  belligerent,  but  with  orders  to  aid 
and  assist  in  protecting  your  settlements  against  the  attacks  of  savages. 

We  are  hourly  expecting  the  arrival  of  the  steam  vessel  Beaver,  and 
it  is  my  intention  to  send  her  on  to  Nisqually  with  as  little  delay  as  pos 
sible  at  this  place,  and  by  that  conveyance,  I  will  cause  the  remainder  of 
the  ammunition,  which  the  steamer  Traveller  cannot  take,  to  be  forwarded. 

The  moral  effect  of  the  steamer  "  Beaver's"  visit  to  the  Sound, 
will  be  powerfully  felt  by  the  native  Indian  tribes,  and  may  contribute  in 
some  measure,  to  confirm  their  wavering  loyalty,  and  to  detach  them  from 
the  general  Indian  confederacy. 

I  trust  in  God,  that  such  may  be  the  event,  and  have  again  to  ex- 


102 

press  my  deep  regret,  that  we  have  not  a  more  efficient  force  to  send  to 
jour  relief. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  sir,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  JAMES  DOUGLASS, 

Governor  Y.  Islands. 


[No.  25.] 

GOVERNMENT 

19th  November,  1855. 


GOVERNMENT  HOUSE,  YICTORIA,  Y.  I.,          ) 

) 


Major  JAMES  TILTON, 

Or  officer  administering  the  government  of  Washington  Territory:  — 

SIR  :  —  The  Honorable  Hudson's  Bay  Company's  steamer,  "  Otter,  n 
having  arrived  at  this  fort,  and  discharged  part  of  her  cargo,  I  have  de 
cided  on  despatching  her  for  the  sake  of  greater  expedition,  with  the 
remnant  of  her  cargo  on  board,  to  Msqually,  and  to  proceed,  should  it 
be  of  advantage  to  your  cause,  as  far  as  Olympia,  with  the  supply  of  am 
munition  promised  in  my  letter  to  you  of  the  6th  inst.  Her  presence  in 
the  Sound  will,  I  trust,  convince  the  native  tribes  that  our  warmest  sym 
pathies  are  enlisted  in  your  favor,  and  that  they  have  to  expect  neither 
countenance  nor  support  from  Her  Majesty's  authorities  in  this  quarter. 

I  much  regret  that  it  is  not  in  my  power  to  afford  you  more  efficient 
assistance,  and  that  the  unprotected  state  of  our  own  settlements,  renders 
it  peculiarly  unadvisable  to  dispense  with  the  services  of  the  "  Otter"  for 
more  than  a  few  days.  The  natives  in  this  quarter  continue  quiet  and 
friendly,  though  evidently  powerfully  moved  in  favor  of  their  race,  a  feel 
ing  which  may  exercise  a  mischievous  influence  on  their  excitable  minds, 
while  it  constrains  us  to  maintain  a  vigilant  control  over  their  movements. 

I  have  no  fears  as  to  the  result  of  the  struggle  at  Nisqually.  If  the 
Indians  leave  their  fastnesses,  and  venture  to  meet  your  forces  in  the  open 
country,  they  will  soon  be  made  to  yield  the  palm  of  victory,  and  in  any 
case,  destitute  as  they  are  of  resources,  they  cannot  protract  the  war  be 
yond  a  very  few  months. 

Begging  to  refer  you  for  further  information  to  Captain   Hunt,  to 
whom  I  have  fully  explained  my  views, 
I  have  the  honor  to  be,  sir, 

Your  obedient  humble  servant, 

(Signed,)  JAMES  DOUGLASS, 

Governor  Vancouver's  Island. 


[No.  26.] 

EXECUTIVE  Oi 

Olympia,  Nov.  23,  1855, 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,      | 


His  Excellency,  JAMES  DOUGLASS, 

Governor  Vancouver's  Island  : — 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  favor  of 
the  19th  inst.,  with  the  additional  supply  of  ammunition. 

The  steamer  "  Otter"  arrived  here  on  the  evening  of  the  21st  inst, 
I  fully  concur  with  you  as  to  the  influence  her  presence  here  will  have 
upon  the  tribes  within  our  waters,  who  may  be  considered  as  wavering,, 
The  results,  however,  which  have  been  accomplished  by  our  troops  since1 
application  was  first  made  to  you,  have,  I  think,  been  sufficient  to  prevent 
a|  least  for  the  present,  any  hostile  movement  on  their  part. 

The  present  emergency  is  not  such  as  to  render  the  presence  of  the 
"Otter"  here  indispensable,  otherwise  I  should  avail  myself  of  any  as 
sistance  she  might  be  able  to  render.  I  am  daily  expecting  the  arrival  of 
a  steamer  at  Steilacoom,  with  additional  forces  and  munitions  of  war, 
which  must  of  themselves  have  an  intimidating  effect  upon  the  Indians 
on  the  Sound. 

Permit  me  again  to  tender  to  you  my  acknowledgments  of  your  cor 
dial  co-operation  in  the  present  excited  state  of  affairs. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be,  sir, 

Very  respectfully,  your  ob't  serv't, 
(Signed,)  C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor  Washington  Territory.. 


[No.  2?.] 

EXECUTr 

Olympia,  October  14th,  1855. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,     > 


r*$l  ,:•:.' 
Capt.  I.  S.  STERETT, 

Commanding  IT.  S.  Ship,  Decatur : — • 

SIR  : — The  recent  difficulties  with  the  Yakima  Indians  have  taken 
so  serious  a  turn,  that  it  has  become  necessary  for  the  executive  of  the 
territory  to  call  forth  two  companies  of  volunteers  to  co-operate  with  the 
regular  troops,  already  in,  and  about  to  be  sent  into  the  field. 

In  this  emergency,  owing  to  the  scarcity  of  ammunition,  arms,  and 


104 

accoutrements  in  the  territory,  I  have  to  request  that  you  will  forward  to 
me  at  Olympia,  such  an  amount  of  the  above  named  munitions  of  war, 
suitable  for  light  Infantry  or  mounted  men,  as  you  can  spare  without  det 
riment  to  the  safety  or  discipline  of  your  ship. 

Surveyor  General  Tilton,   who  takes  this  to  you,  will  confer  with 
you  relative  to  what  has  been  done,  and  what  is  proposed  in  view  of  the 
present  Indian  difficulties  ;  and  1  hereby  authorize  him  to  receipt  any  pa 
pers  in  my  name  relative  to  arms,  ammunition,  supplies,  &c, 
I  am  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

C.  H.  MASON, 
Acting  Governor  Washington  Territory. 


[No.  28.]     October  14th.     Letter  of  same  import  seat  to  Capt.  W. 
C.  Pease,  Commanding  Revenue  Cutter  "Jeff.  Davis." 


[No.  29.] 

U.  S.  SLOOP  OF  WAR,  DECATUR,  ) 

Seattle,  W.  T.,  Oct.  15th,  1855. 

Acting  Governor,  C.  H.  MASON  : — 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  letter  of 
the  14th  inst.,  delivered  by  Surveyor  General  Tilton. 

Agreeably  to  your  request,  I  forward  to  you  all  the  arms,  ammuni 
tion,  &c,,  which  I  can  possibly  spare — lists  of  which  are  enclosed. 
I  am,  sir,  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

ISAAC  S.  STERRETT, 

Commander. 


(No.  300 

U.  S.  REV] 

Seattle,  October  15th,  1856. 


U.  S.  REVENUE  CUTTER,  JEFFERSON  DAVIS,      ) 


C.  H.  MASON,  Esq., 

Acting  Governor,  Washington  Territory  : — 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  letter 
of  the  14th  inst.,  relative  to  furnishing  arms,  &c.,  for  the  use  of  volunteers 
recently  called  out  by  your  Excellency. 


105 

Unfortunately,  this  vessel  was  but  partially  provided  with  arms  on 
sailing  from  New  York.  I  send  you,  however,  as  many  as  I  can  possibly 
spare,  with  350  rounds  of  musket  cartridges,  and  regret  that  I  cannot 
more  fully  comply  with  your  request. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  your  obedient  servant, 

WILLIAM  C.  PEASE, 

Captain. 


'  [No.  31.] 

U.  S.  REVENUE  CUTTER,  "JEFFERSON  DAVIS,"         ) 
Steilacoom,  October  17th,  1855.  j 

C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor  Washington  Territory  : — 

SIR  : —  I  have  the  honor  to  inform  your  Excellency  of  my  arrival  at 
this  place,  and  to  state  that  I  can  land  twenty  men,  well  armed  with  rifles, 
at  a  moment's  notice,  and  will  be  happy  to  do  so,  whenever  occasion  may 
require  it,  provided  the  safety  of  the  vessel  is  not  endangered  thereby. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be,  your  obedient  servant, 

WILLIAM  C.  PEASE, 

Captain. 


[No.  32.] 

EXECUTIVE 

October  18th 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  W.  T.,  ) 

,  1855.          f 


Capt.  1.  S.  STERRETT, 

Commanding  U.  S.  Ship  Decatur  :  — 

SIR  :  —  I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  favor  of 
15th  inst.,  with  the  enclosed  invoice,  which  I  herewith  return  receipted, 
all  the  articles  therein  mentioned  having  been  received  by  me. 

At  my  request  Lieut.  Drake  has  remained  here,  in  order  to  trans- 
14 


106 

port  pack  saddles,  &c.,  from  this  place  to  the  Quartermaster  at  Fort 
Steilacoom.  I  have  also  further  requested  him  to  render,  through  his 
boat  and  crew,  such  farther  assistance  in  transporting  articles  to  the  gar 
rison  as  may  be  needed  in  the  present  exigency. 

This  evening  an  express  reached  me  from  Fort  Vancouver,  bringing 
the  information  that  Major  Haller  had  met  with  a  serious  check  from  the 
Indians  before  re-inforcements  readied  him,  and  that  he  had  been  com 
pelled  to  return  to  the  Dalles.  The  above  information  was  at  once  trans 
mitted  to  Capt.  Maloriy  at  Fort  Steilacoom,  with  the  request  that  every 
man  that  could  possibly  be  spared  be  at  once  sent  into  the  field.  I  also 
suggested  to  him  that  in  case  of  necessity,  doubtless  some  fifteen  or  twenty 
men  could  be  spared  from  the  "  Decatur,"  to  take  the  place  of  the  addi 
tional  troops  taken  from  the  garrison.  If  deemed  necessary  by  him,  this 
request  will  be  made  by  me  upon  you. 

I  vrould  suggest  that  Seattle  continue  to  be  the  station  of  the  "  De- 
catur  "  until  further  information  be  received  from  the  scene  of  action. 

I  return  to  you  my  sincere  thanks  for  the  prompt,  energetic  and  effi 
cient  action  you  have  taken  in  co-operating  with  the  civil  authorities  of 
the  territory. 

lam,  sir,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

C.  H.  MASON, 
Acting  Governor  Wash.  Ter. 


[No.  33.] 

EXECI 

October  18th,  1855. 

Capt.  WM.  C.  PEASE, 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,          ) 


Comd'g  Rev.  Cutter,  "Jefferson  Davis." — 

SIR: —  I  nave  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  favor  of 
October  15th,  together  with  the  accompanying  invoice  which  I  return 

0 

receipted,  the  articles  mentioned  therein  haying  been  received  by  me. 

Information  has  this  evening  been  received  by  me,  that  Maj.  Haller, 
who  left  the  Dalles  with  about  one  hundred  men,  had  been  attacked  by  a 
body  of  Indians  estimated  from  twelve  to  fifteen  hundred  strong,  and 
been  compelled  to  return  with  a  loss  of  five  killed  and  seventeen  wounded. 


107 

All  the  disposable  force  of  the  IT.  S.  troops  have  been  ordered  into 
the  field,  and  volunteers  have  been  called  for,  both  from  Oregon  and  this 
territory. 

In  this  emergency,  for  the  protection  of  the  settlers  on  the  more 
northern  portions  of  the  Sound,  J  beg  leave  to  suggest  that  you  make 
your  cruising  ground  from  Port  Townsend,  around  Whidby's  Island  to 
Bellingham  Bay. 

I  have  suggested  to  Capt.  Sterrett,  Commanding  U.  S:  Ship  "Deca 
tur,"  that  he  remain  for  the  present  at  Seattle,  until  further  information 
from  the  scene  of  action. 

This  evening  I  received  your  favor  of  Oct.  17th,  dated  from  Steila- 
coom. 

Permit  me  to  tender  to  you  my  thanks  for  the  promptness  with  which 
yqu  have  co-operated  with  tlie  civil  authorities  of  the  territory. 
I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant^ 

C.  H.  MASON, 
Acting  Governor,  Wash.  Ter. 


[No.  34.] 

EXEC 

October  19th,  12  P.  M'.',  1855 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  ) 


Capt.  I.  S.  STERHETT, 

Commanding  U.  S.  Ship  Decatur  : 

SIR — Since  my  note  of  this  evening,  I  have  received  a  message 
from  Fort  Steilacoom. 

I  -will  now  request  that  as  many  of  the  marines  as  you  can  spare 
may  le  transferred  to  Fort  Steilaccom,  for  the  general  protection  of  the 
post  and  the" community. 

I  havo  requested  Lieut.  Drake, to  remain  there  until  your  action  in 
this  matter  is  known. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 

C.  H.  MASON, 
Acting  Gov.  Wash.  Ter, 


108 

[No.  35.] 

U.  S.  REVEN 

Steilacoom,  October  31st,  1855. 


U.  S.  REVENUE  CUTTER,  "JEFF.  DAVIS,"  } 


JAMES  TILTON,  ESQ., 

Adjutant  General  Wash.  Ter.: 

DEAR  GENERAL  : — Yours  of  this  morning  is  just  received.  I  send 
you  with  pleasure  two  twelve  pounder  guns  and  fixtures  complete.  The 
guns  are  loaded  with  grape  shot.  You  know  the  necessity  of  having  them 
secured  as  well  as  I  do.  *  *  *  * 

Will  you  allow  me  to  suggest  to  you  the  propriety  of  calling  for  vol 
unteers  from  the  lower  part  of  the  Sound,  to  rendezvous  here  immedi 
ately.  I  am  certain  they  will  be  wanted  sooner  or  later.  I  have  pork, 
beef  and  bread  enough  at  Port  Townsend  for  them  if  necessary. 

I  doubt  the  propriety  of  defending  the  post  at  great  hazard,  against 
a  large  body  of  Indians,  because  there  is  no  retreat.  This  would  not 
happen,  of  course,  unless  Malony  was  cut  off,  and  it  is  doubtful  if  it 
would  happen  even  then.  The  Nisqually  Indians  are  joining  the  disaf 
fected,  and  Dr.  Tolmie  is  somewhat  alarmed. 

I  shall  remain  here  until  matters  get  quiet — ready  to  take  only  women 
and  children  on  board. 

I  think  thirty  good  men  can  be  got  from  Whidby's  Island  and  vi 
cinity.  ******* 

In  great  haste,  yours  very  truly, 

WM.  C.  PEASE. 


[No.  36.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  W.  T., 

OLYMPIA,  Nov.  3d,  1855. 

To  THE  OFFICER  COMMANDING 

U.  S.  Squadron  on  the  Pacific  Station  : 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  inform  you  that  a  war  has  broken  out  in 
this  territory  with  the  Yakirna  and  several  confederated  tribes  of  Indians 
on  the  eastern  side  of  the  Cascade  range  of  mountains,  and  that  from  the 
very  uncertain  hold  which  we  have  upon  the  tribes  inhabiting  the  shores 
of  Puget  Sound,  serious  difficulties  are  to  be  apprehended  there  also.  In 


109 

» 

fact,  a  collision  has  already  taken  place  with  one  band,  in  which  citizens 
have  been  killed,  and  the  extent  of  the  combination  is  not  yet  ascertained. 
Under  these  circumstances,  our  population  being  very  sparse  and  ill 
armed,  the  gravest  consequences  are  to  be  apprehended  in  case  the  war 
extends.  The  troops  posted  at  Fort  Steilacoom  have  all  been  sent  across 
the  mountains,  and  reinforcements  are  yet  needed  for  the  force  employed 
there.  The  sloop-of-war  Decatur,  and  Revenue  Cutter  Jefferson  t)avis, 
are  both  stationed  at  exposed  points,  but  it  is  deemed  very  essential  that 
an  additional  vessel  of  war,  if  possible,  a  steamer,  should  be  sent  to 
cruise  at  other  points,  and  co-operate  with  the  land  forces  in  boat  attacks. 
As  the  danger  is  imminent,  I  most  earnestly  request  that  this  may  be 
done  without  delay. 

Yery  respectfully,  your  most  obedient  servant, 

C.  H.  MASON, 
Acting  Gov.  Ter.  Wash. 


[No.  37.] 

U.  S 

Off  Seattle,  W.  T.,  Nov.  14th,  1855. 


U.  S.  SLOOP-OF^WAR,  DECATUR, 


Hon.  CHAS.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor  W.  T.,  Olymjna  : 

SIR  : — In  consequence  of  the  receipt  of  the  enclosed  letter  from  the 
people  at  Port  Townsend,  I  shall  leave  for  that  place  in  the  morning,  and 
upon  the  arrival  of  the  Cutter,  Jefferson  Davis  there,  shall  get  under 
way  for  a  cruise  up  the  Sound,  touching  at  the  various  ports. 

They  can  muster  here  about  seventy-five  (75)  men.  In  addition  to 
this  force,  I  shall  leave  Lieut.  Drake  with  eight  marines  and  the  boat's 
howitzer,  which,  in  my  opinion,  is  sufficient  to  defend  the  place  until  my 
return. 

The  inhabitants  are  deficient  in  arms,  mustering,  I  believe,  only  about 
thirty-five  (35)  or  forty  good  muskets  and  rifles.  They  have  others 
which  are  very  indifferent,  and  should  be  replaced  by  effective  weapons  as 
soon  as  possible. 

Very  respectfully,  your  most  obedient  servant, 

ISAAC  S.  STERRETT, 

Commander. 


110 

[No.  38.] 

U.  S.  SLOOP-OF-WAR,  DECATUR,  ) 

Off  Seattle,  Nov.  18th,  1855.      j 

Hon.  CHAS.  H.  MASONT, 

Acting  Governor  W.  T.,  Olympia  : 

SIR:—  *  *  *         *  Since  the  14th  inst., 

I  have  procured  a  good  twelve  pound  g;un  from  Dr.  Maynard,  and  as  soon 
as  it  is  mounted  and  every  thing  ready  for  a  siege,  I  shall  leave  on  a 
cruise  to  touch  at  the  various  ports  on  the  Sound,  where  protection  may 
be  required,  feeling  satisfied  that  the  people  here  are  perfectly  capable  of 
taking  care  of  themselves,  at  least  for  the  present. 

I  mast  again  request  you  to  furnish  me,  with  all  convenient  dispatch, 
authority  to  take  from  any  vessel  with  arms  on  board  for  this  territory, 
the  numbers  of  guns,  pistols,  &c.,  required  for  a  vigorous  prosecution  of 
the  war  in  the  lower  part  of  the  Sound. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

ISAAC  S.  STERRETT, 

Commander. 


[No.  39.] 

EXECU' 

Olyjipia,  Dec.  28th,   1855. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASHINGTON,      \ 


1 1  i  *  '  *     '  /      ^*  i  •  '  •  i 

Capt.  G.  GANSEVOORT, 

Commanding  U.  S.  Ship,  Decatur : 

SIR  : — Under  the  present  relations  existing  in  this  territory  between 
the  citizens  of  the  United  States  and  the  Indians  residing  within  our 
limits,  I  have  to  request  your  co  operation  with  the  officers  of  the  Indian 
Department  in  such  measures  as  have  been  adopted  for  our  self-preserva 
tion,  and  for  the  protection  of  such  Indians  as  may  at  present  be  deemed 
friendly. 

In  order  to  remove  the  Indians  residing  on  the  eastern  side  of  Puget 
Sound,  as  far  as  possible  from  the  influence  of  the  hostile  bands,  all  from 
all  communication  with  them,  and  at  the  same  time  to  protect  them  from 
any  careless  or  untoward  conduct  on  the  part  of  the  troops  now  in  the 


Ill 

field,  they  have  been  ordered  to  certain  localities,  designated  by  the  In 
dian  agents,  on  the  northern  part  of  the  Sound. 

This  order  has  been  very  generally  and  cheerfully  complied  with  at  all 
points,  with  the  exception  of  a  small  band  at  the  town  of  Seattle.  This 
point,  from  its  proximity  to  the  present  hostile  ground,  must  necessarily, 
for  the  protection  of  all  concerned,  be  subjected  to  the  same  policy  that 
has  been  carried  out  through  other  parts  of  the  territory. 

Orders  have  been  given  to  the  Indian  agent  for  the  Puget  Sound 
District  to  this  effect,  and  in  case  of  difficulty,  he  has  been  directed  to 
apply  to  you  for  assistance. 

This  request  is  not  confined  to  this  particular  place,  or  the  circum 
stances  connected  with  it,  but  to  any  or  all  occasions,  in  which  it 
may  be  necessary  to  strengthen  the  influence  of  the  officers  of  the  In 
dian  Department  of  this  territory. 

The  Indians  that  have  thus  far  been  collected,  have  been  placed  in 
charge  of  special  agents,  who  have  been  directed  not  to  allow  them  to 
leave  their  present  locality  without  a  pass  from  the  agent  in  charge. 
That  you  may  be  aware  of  the  persons  at  present  holding  this  authority, 
I  herewith  furnish  their  names:  M.  T.  Simmons,  J.  B.  Webber,  D.  L. 
Maynard,  H.  H.  Tobin,  N.  D.  Hill,  Robt.  C.  Fay,  and  E.  C.  Fitzhugh. 
Should  any  more  special  agents  be  appointed,  you  will  be  informed  of  the 
same. 

In  conclusion,  I  will  say  that  the  Indians  residing  on  Puget  Sound, 
as  far  as  at  present  is  ascertained,  are  friendly,  and  it  requires  but  a  ju 
dicious  and  friendly,  but  firm  course,  to  maintain  the  present  amicable 
relations. 

I  am,  sir,  with  much  respect,  , 

Your  obedient  servant, 

CHAS.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Gov.  W.  T. 

.'  '  ,•'•-•-  i.i  .jo...'-.*    ^~:' .  .    ,  '        v'  .j 

:;'>.  •  .'JOTS 


rx-        A  m 

[ISo.  40.] 

FORT  STEILACOOM,-  Feb.  16th,  1.856. 


Capt.  GAXSEVOORT, 

Commanding  Naval  Forces,  Puget  Sound  : 

SIR  : — Col.  M.  T.  Simmons  is  operating  on  the  rear  of  the  hostile 
Indians  from  the  falls  of  the  Snoqualmie.  He  has  with  him  Pat  Canim 
and  sixty  friendly  Indians. 


112 

They  need  support.  I  have  ordered  Oapt.  Isaac  N.  Ebey,  the  en 
rolling  officer  of  the  lower  battalion,  at  once  to  dispatch  all  his  disposable 
force  in  that  quarter  ;  he  is  at  Port  Townsend,  and  one  company  is  there 
ready  to  take  the  field. 

I  will,  therefore,  ask  you  to  dispatch  the  Active  immediately  to  Port 
Townsend,  take  on  board  Capt.  Ebey's  forces  and  supplies,  and  transport 
them  to  the  mouth  of  the  Snohomish.     It  is  a  most  vital  operation,  and 
I  trust  you  will  see  your  way  clear  to  immediately  dispatch  the  Active, 
a;  I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,;  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Ter.  Wash. 


[No.  41.] 

EXECUTIVE  0 

OLYMPIA,  Feb.  17,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASH., 


Capt.  G.  GANSEVOORT, 

Commanding  Naval  Forces,  Seattle : 

SIR  : — From  information  I  have  received,  I  am  apprehensive  of  a 
descent  on  the  settlements  on  the  lower  part  of  the  Sound,  of  fourteen" 
war  canoes  of  northern  Indians,  and  I  have  most  respectfully  but  strongly 
to  urge  that  the  Active,  after  having  furnished  troops  and  supplies  at  the 
mouth  of  the  Snohomish,  be  kept  cruising  the  whole  time  between  Port 
Townsend,  Bellingham  Bay  and  Seattle. 

These  northern  Indians,  in  daring,  force  and  -  intelligence,  greatly 
surpass  the  Indians  of  the  Sound.  Their  war  canoes,  carrying  seventy- 
five  men,  can  be  moved  through  stormy  seas,  and  with  great  rapidity.  I 
deem  it  essential  to  the  protection  of  the  lower  portion  of  the  Sound, 
that  a  steamer  should  be  constantly  in  motion  there. 

I  trust,  therefore,  you  will  be  able  to  comply  with  my  request,  and  I 
remain,  very  respectfully,  your  most  obedient, 

(Signed,)  '  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Wash.  Ter. 


113 

[No.  42.] 

OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V., 
Olympia,  March  2d,  1856. 

CAPT.  ALDEN, 

Commanding  U.  S.  Steamer  Active  : 

SIR: — By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief,  I  write 
to  request  you  to  furnish  us  with  all  the  spare  percussion  caps  and  priming 
or  rifle  powder  you  can. 

I  take  it  for  granted  you  will  soon  depart  for  San  Francisco,  and  as 
we  are  very  scarce  of  ammunition,  it  will  greatly  relieve  us  if  you  can 
furnish  it. 

Also,  it  would  greatly  facilitate  our  operation  if  you  could  take  a 
supply  of  arms  hence  to  the  Columbia  River.  The  roads  across  are  so 
execrable  at  this  season  of  the  year,  and  also  the  transportation  of  the 
country  so  absorbed  by  the  requirements  of  the  troops  moving  into  the 
White  river  country,  that  we  are  at  a  loss  to  devise  means  for  forwarding 
arms  to  the  Southern  Battalion,  now  organizing  upon  the  Columbia  river, 
and  to  furnish  the  inhabitants  of  that  region  with  their  quota  of  arms. 

If  it  is  possible  for  you  to  afford  us  this  assistance,  in  addition  to  the 
most  essential  and  arduous  service  you  have  rendered  this  territory  during 
the  past  winter,  it  will  be  highly  appreciated  by  the  government  and  in 
habitants  of  Washington  territory,  and  constitute  an  appropriate  close 
to  the  efficient  and  invaluable  services  of  the  Active,  during  the  present 
.Indian  war  in  Washington  territory. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  ob't  servant, 
(Signed,;  JAMES  T1LTON, 

Adj't  Gen.  W.  T. 


[No.  43.] 

U^.  S.  COAST  SURVEY  STEAMER  ACTIVE,         ) 
Seattle,  March  3d,  1856.  f 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  Volunteers  : 
, 

SIR  : — Your  letter,  dated  yesterday,  is  received,  and  for  the  informa 
tion  .of  tne  Governor,  I  have  the  honor  to  state  that  I  have  been  supply- 
15  , 


114 

ing  the  volunteers  with  ammunition  to  the  extent  of  my  means,  and  re" 
cently  at  Port  Townsend,  we  turned  over  to  Captain  Howe,  Company  I, 
all  that  we  could  possibly  spare  in  the  way  of  cartridges  and  caps.  The 
fifteen  pounds  of  rifle  powder  herewith  sent,  is  all  of  that  article,  except 
a  pound  or  two,  that  we  now  have  on  board. 

I  should  be  exceedingly  glad  to  be  of  service  hi  transporting  the 
arms  you  mention  to  the  Columbia  river,  and  if  you  will  forward  them  to 
this  place  by  the  Massachusetts  (which  vessel  visits  Olympia  in  a  few 
days)  I  will  receive  them  on  board,  and  if  possible,  deliver  them  at  the 
point  named.  The  difficulty,  however,  of  crossing  the  bar  of  the  Colum 
bia  river  is  frequently  so  great  at  this  season  of  the  year,  that  I  propose 
in  view  of  too  great  a  detention  there,  to  carry  the  arms  to  San  Fran 
cisco,  and  ship  them  at  once  on  board  the  Mail  Steamer  for  the  point 
named,  which  arrangement,  I  am  sure,  will  place  them  there  within  a  rea 
sonable  time,  and  which  I  trust  will  meet  your  views. 

With  a  grateful  sense  of  the  flattering  notice  which  your  letter  con 
tains,  of  our  humble  efforts  to  be  of  service  to  the  people  of  this  territory, 
I  am,  very  truly, 

Your  obedient  servantr 

(Signed,)  JAMES  ALDEN, 

Commander  XJ.  S.  Navy,  commanding  Steamer  Active. 


[No.  44.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE, 

Olympia,  March  15,  1856 

Capt.  SAilUEL   SWARTWOUT, 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,         ) 


Commanding  Naval  Forces,  Puget  Sound,  Seattle  : 

SIR  : — I  have  despatched  my  aid-de-camp,  Lt.  Col.  Crosbie,  to  con 
fer  with  you  in  relation  to  a  combined  movement  of  the  naval  and  mili 
tary  forces  from  Seattle. 

I  have  selected  Col.  Crosbie  for  this  duty  in  consequence  of  his 
great  familiarity  with  all  portions  of  the  country,  its  geography,  its  In 
dian  tribes,  and  its  people. 

If  an  operation  could  go  on  from  Seattle — say  a  war  expedition  to 
the  lake,  the  establishment  of  a  block  house  on  that  lake,  and  a  good 


MfetJba 

115 

wagon  road  opened  therefrom  with  Seattle,  it  would  combine  admirably 
with  the  operations  now  going  on  from  this  quarter  and  from  the  Snoho- 
mish — would  much  circumscribe  the  country  now  occupied  by  the  hostiles 
— would  furnish  opportunities  of  striking  immediate  blows,  and  would 
probably  pave  the  way  for  the  final  blow  to  end  the  war. 
Yery  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  Territory  Washington. 


[No.  45.] 

Harbor  of  Seattle,  W.  T.,  March  16,  1856. 


U.  S.  STEAMER  MASSACHUSETTS, 


To  His  Excellency,  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief  W.  T.  V.  Forces  : 

SIR— Your  letter  of  the  15th  instant,  was  handed  to  me  to-day  by 
Lieut.  Col.  Crosbie. 

In  reply,  I  would  state  that  my  instructions  upon  assuming  the  com 
mand  of  the  U.  S.  naval  forces  in  Puget  Sound,  direct  me  to  act  in  con 
cert  with  the  military  forces  under  Major  General  Wool,  when  the  same 
can  be  done  within  the  immediate  vicinity  of  the  Sound  ;  but  not  to  per 
mit  any  portion  of  my  command  to  go  into  the  interior.  If,  however,  I 
were  at  liberty  to  co-operate  with  your  volunteers  in  prosecuting  the  ex 
pedition  you  have  projected,  it  would  be  impracticable,  as  I  understand 
that  the  river  from  here  to  the  lakes  is  not  navigable  for  our  boats,  and 
besides,  when  the  volunteers  leave  this  place,  the  inhabitants  will  be  en 
tirely  dependent  upon  the  naval  forces  here  in  the  event  of  an  attack  by 
the  hostile  Indians. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  S.  SWARTWOUT, 

Commanding  U.  S.  Naval  Forces,  Puget  Sound. 


116 

[No.  46.] 

U.  S. 

Port  Townsend,  March  22d,  1856. 


U.  S.  REVENUE  CUTTER  JEFFERSON    DAVIS,      ) 


JAMES  TILTON,  Esq., 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V,  Forces  : 

SIR  : — Having  received  instructions  to  replace  the  battery  belonging 
to  this  vessel  as  soon  as  possible,  you  will  please  send  me  the  guns  and 
accompaniments  by  your  first  opportunity  to  Seattle,  either  by  the  steamer 
"Traveller,"  or  the  schooner  "R.  B.  Potter." 

I  am,  sir,  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  W.  C.  PEASE, 

Captain. 


[No.  47.] 

OFFICE  Ai 

Olympia,  March  31st,  1856. 


OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  VOL.,      ) 


Capt.  W.  C.  PEASE, 

Commanding  U.  S.  Revenue  Cutter  "Jefferson  Davis:" 

SIR: — Your  letter,  dated  March  22d,  Port  Townsend,  requesting  a 
return  of  the  two  cannon  so  promptly  furnished  the  inhabitants  of  Olym 
pia  from  your  vessel  last  winter,  is  received. 

In  reply  I  am  instructed  by  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief 
to  state — 

In  view  of  the  condition  of  Indian  affairs  in  the  vicinity,  the  uncer 
tain  tenure  by  which  the  Chehalis,  our  near  neighbors,  are  held  to  their 
allegiance,  and  the  fact  of  roving  bands  of  the  White  river  Indians  hav 
ing  turned  the  flank  of  the  forces  about  Fort  Slaughter  on  the  Muckle- 
shoot,  and  being  now  lurking  in  the  forest  skirting  the  prairies  lying  be 
tween  the  Nesqually  and  Skookum  Chuck — the  confidence  inspired  in 
our  citizens  with  families  residing  here,  and  the  dread  the  presence  of  the 
cannon  inspires  the  enemy  with,  all  these  facts,  sir,  constitute  sufficient 
reason  for  retaining  the  cannon  just  now,  and  urging  you  to  endeavor  to 
continue  your  active  and  useful  cruisings  without  them,  or  procure  others 
from  the  men-of-^vwr  now  lying  in  the  harbor  of  Seattle. 

In  the  hope  you  will  concur  with  us  in  the  Opinion  that  the  public 
service  will  be  best  served  by  having  these  cannon  here,  and  you  will  add 
to  your  former  valuable  and  efficient  service  to  the  people  of  the  territory 


117 

by  acceding  to  the  urgent  desire  of  the  inhabitants  here  to  have.them, 
these  formidable  means  of  defence. 

I  am  your  obedient  servant, 
( Signed,)  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General. 


[No.  48,] 

U.  S.  R.  CUTTER    "JEFFERSON  DAVIS,"     ) 
Seattle,  W.  T.,  April  3d,  1856.         j 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  Y.  Forces : 

SIR  : — Your  letter  of  the  31st  ultimo  was  duly  received,  and  in  re 
ply  I  have  respectfully  to  state  that  I  transferred  a  portion  of  my  battery 
to  the  Revenue  Cutter  " Joseph  Lane,"  bound  to  Oregon,  when  I  was  in 
San  Francisco,  which  now  leaves  me  with  only  two  guns. 

There  are  no  guns  on  board  any  of  the  men-of-war  now  in  port,  that 
will  suit  this  vessel,  except  howitzers  used  for  land  and  boat  service,  and 
in  cruising  about  the  lower  portion  of  the  Sound,  and  in  the  vicinity  of ' 
Bellingham  Bay.  It  is  necessary,  as  you  are  aware,  for  this  vessel  to  be 
well  armed,  and  the  two  guns  you  now  have,  are  almost  indispensable, 
but,  under  the  circumstances  set  forth  in  your  letter,  ©f  course,  I  can 
not  ask  that  you  return  them  to  me  at  present. 

The  request,  independent  of  that  of  the  Governor,  is  a  sufficient  jus- . 
tification  for  me  to  let  them  remain  where  they  are. 

I  have  only  to  ask  that  you  will  return  them  to  me  as  soon  as  you 
can  do  so  with  safety  to  the  inhabitants  of  Olympic 

I  had  much  to  contend  against  at  San  Francisco,  in  consequence  of 
my  having  assisted  in  the  present  Indian  war,  notwithstanding  my  mind 
was  not  changed,  and  I  am  now  ready  to  do  the  same  for  the  citizens  of 
this  territory  as  I  ever  had,  and  if  granting  a  little,  aid  to  the  inhabitants 
in  protecting  them  from  the  ruthless  hand  of  the  savage,  with  a  govern 
ment  vessel,  has  become  a  crime,  then  let  me  .go  "whistling  down  the 
wind."  So  long  as  I  command  this  vessel,  and  (as  I  have  asked  to  be 
recalled,  the  probability  is  that  it  will  not  be  much  longer)  I  am  at  the 
service  of  the  Governor  of  Washington  territory,  let  what  will  come. 

Allow  me,  sir,  to  express   my   admiration  of  his  letter  to  General 


118 

Wool !     He  shows  himself  to  be  the  man  for  the  occasion,  and  his  letter 
seems  to  me  to  be  equalled  only  by  that  of  W.  L.  Marcy  to  Gen.   Scott. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be,  sir, 

Very  respectfully,  your  ob't  serv't, 
(Signed,)  W.  C.  PEASE, 

Captain  TJ.  S.  Revenue  Service. 


[No.  49.] 

TJ.  S. 

Seattle,  W.  T.,  March  30th,  1856 


U.  S.  REVENUE  CUTTER   JEFFERSON  DAVIS,      ) 


His  Excellency,  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  Washington  Territory: 

SIR  : — I  have  the  pleasure  to  enclose  to  your  Excellency  a  copy  of 
a  letter  addressed  to  me  by  the  Secretary  of  the  Treasury. 
With  sentiments  of  the  highest  respect, 

Your  obedient  humble  servant, 
(Signed,)  W.  C.  PEASE, 

Captain. 


[No.  50.] 

EXECUTIVE  ( 

Olympia,  March  30,  1856. 

Capt.  SAMUEL  SWARTWOUT, 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,     ) 


Commanding  Naval  Forces  in  Puget  Sound  : 

SIR  : — I  received  information  last  evening  that  the  Indians  on  the 
26th  instant,  attacked  the  Cascades,  killed  several  persons,  drove  all  the 
inhabitants  either  into  the  block  house,  or  on  ship-Jboard,  and  that  great 
excitement  prevails  throughout  the  Columbia  valley.  The  Cascades  is 
midway  between  Yancouver  and  the  Dalles,  and  was  held  by  a  garrison 
of  ten  men  of  the  regular  troops.  I  am  apprehensive  that  this  informa 
tion  may  have  an  unfavorable  effect  upon  the  Indians  of  the  Sound  who 
have,  throughout  the  war,  remained  unfriendly,  and  I  have  directed  the 
Indian  Agent,  Col.  Simmons,  to  make  a  tour  of  inspection  at  the  earliest 


119 

practicable  period.  At  this  time  your  steamers,  moving  from  point  to 
point  on  the  Sound,  will,  in  my  judgment,  have  most  influence  to  main 
tain  the  existing  friendly  attitude  of  the  Indians  on  the  reservations  at 
Bellingham  Bay,  on  the  western  shore  of  the  Sound,  and  on  the  straits  of 
De  Fuca,  and  it  may  be  indispensable  to  prevent  their  breaking 
out. 

I  will  ask  you  to  send  one  of  your  steamers  to  Olympia,  to  take  Col. 
Simmons  on  board,  and  convey  him  to  the  several  reservations,  to  Belling 
ham  Bay,  and  down  the  straits  De  Fuca,  as  far  as  New  Dunginess.  I 
will  state  that  I  consider  the  visiting  of  the  tribes  by  their  agent  on  a  na 
tional  vessel,  to  be  important  at  this  juncture.  Were  not  my  whole  ener 
gies  required  here,  I  should  visit  the  tribes  myself. 

If  you  can  comply  with  my  request,  I  will  thank  you  to  send  the 
steamer  to  Olympia  immediately. 

We  are  apprehensive  that  the  hostile  Indians  are  trying  to  turn  our 
flank  at  the  head  of  the  Sound,  and  that  they  may  attack  our  settlements 
from  the  Nisqually  to  the  Cowlitz.  Every  neighborhood  is,  however,  se 
cured  by  block-houses,  and  I  have  a  volunteer  mounted  force,  including 
mounted  quartermaster's  employees,  of  180  men,  ranging  from  the  settled 
portion  of  Pierce  county  to  the  Cowlitz.  This  force  will  be  increased 
some  fifty  men.  Besides  which,  the  volunteer  force  in  the  enemy's  country 
is,  including  Capt.  Lander's  company,  about  three  hundred  men. 

Very  truly,  yours, 
(Signed,;  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  Washington  Territory. 


[No.  51.} 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY, 
Olympia,  March  31st,  1856. 

Capt.  SAMUEL  SWARTWOUT, 

Commanding  Naval  Forces  Puget  Sound : 

SIR  : — I  have  appointed  H.  Haley,  Esq.,  local  agent  of  the  Indians 
of  Seattle's  tribe,  in  place  of  Dr.  Maynard,  resigned. 

He  is  instructed,  in  the  event  that  these  Indians  show  a  hostile  dis 
position,  to  call  upon  you  for  aid.     They  seem  well  disposed  at  the  pres 
ent  time.     I  trust,  however,  in  our  present  exigency,  you  will  assist  him. 
I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Superintendent,  W.  T. 


120 

[No.  52.] 

Harbor  of  Seattle,  W.  T.,  April  1st,  1856. 


U.  S.  STEAMER  "MASSACHUSETTS,"     ) 


His  Excellency,  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  Washington  Territory,  Olympia  : 

SIR  : — Your  letters  of  the  30th  and  31st  ultimo,  were  handed  to  me 
last  evening  by  Mr.  Haley.  Before  the  receipt  of  these  letters,  I  had 
determined  to  despatch  one  of  the  vessels  under  my  command  upon  a 
cruise  in  "  Fuca  Straits  "  and  its  vicinity,  in  order  to  suppress  any  hostile 
movements  that  might  be  exhibited  by  the  northern  Indians.  It  is  my 
intention  to  keep  the  naval  forces  stationed  here  actively  cruising  in  Pu- 
get  Sound  and  Fuca  Straits,  as  I  am  fully  aware  it  will  have  the  effect  to 
intimidate  the  hostile  tribes,  and  prevent  those  Indians,  who  profess  to  be 
friendly,  from  committing  depredations  upon  the  white  inhabitants.  The 
volunteers  having  gone  into  the  field,  I  shall  be  compelled  to  keep  one 
vessel  here,  in  order  to  garrison  and  defend  the  town  in  the  event  of  an 
attack  by  the  hostile  Indians. 

The  revenue  cutter  Jefferson  Davis  will  sail  very  shortly  for  Port 
Townsend,  to  cruise  in  Fuca  Straits.  I  will  most  cheerfully  comply  with 
your  request,  by  aiding  Mr.  Haley  as  far  as  I  can  compatibly  with  my 
instructions,  should  the  exigency  occur  to  which  you  allude  hi  your  letter 
of  the  31st  ultimo. 

Agreeably  to  your  request,  I  have  directed  Lieut.  Com'dg  D.  Mc- 
Dougal  to  proceed  to  Olympia  with  the  U.  S.  Steamer  "John  Hancock," 
under  his  command,  and  take  on  board  Col.  Simmons,  and  carry  him  to 
the  several  reservations,  Bellingham  Bay,  and  New  Dunginess. 

I  am,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  S.  SWARTWOUT, 

Commanding  Naval  Forces,  Puget  Sound. 


[No.  53.} 

Harbor  of  Seattle,  W.  T.,  April  20th,  1856. 


U.  S.  STEAMER  "  MASSACHUSETTS," 


His  Excellency,  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Superintendent  Indian  Affairs,  Olympia  : 

SIR  : — The  enclosed  letter  from  Mr.  Haley  was  received  by  me  yes 
terday  afternoon.    Upon  the  receipt  of  it,  I  despatched  the  steamer 


11  John  Hancock, "  over  to  the  Reservation.  Two  of  the  Indians  com 
plained  of  were  taken,  the  other  escaped  before  the  "  Hancock"  arrived. 
I  have  sent  the  two  Indians  brought  by  the  "  Hancock, "  on  board  of  the 
"  II.  B.  Potter,"  to  be  delivered  into  your  custody. 

Very  respectfullyr  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  S.  SWAKTWOUT, 

Commanding  U.  S.  Naval  Forces,  Puget  Sound. 


[No.  54.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  W.  T.,     ) 
April  26th,  1856.  ) 

Capt.  SAMUEL  SwARTwony 

Commanding  Naval  Forces,  Puget  Sound  : 

SIR  : — I  have  to  return  my  acknowledgments  for  your  promptly  acce 
ding  to  the  request  of  Mr.  Haley,  to  take  from  his  reservation  some  bad 
Indians,  and  for  sending  them  to  me  at  Olympia.  They  arrived  last  eve 
ning  in  the  "  Potter," 

Mr.  Haley  reports  there  are  two  other  Indians  who  ought  to  be  re 
moved.  If  your  assistance  is  again  asked  for  by  him,  I  will  rely  upon 
your  furnishing  it. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,;  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Ter.  Wash. 


[No.  55,] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA, 

June  2d,   1856.  ) 

Capt.  SAMUEL  SWARTWOUT, 

Commanding  Naval  Forces,  Puget  Sound : 

SIR  : — I  have  to  return  my  heartfelt  acknowledgments  for  your 
promptitude  In  despatching  the  "  Hancock  "  to  Holmes  Harbor,  and  for 
16 


122 

advising  me,  through  Captain  Hewett,  of  the  recent  act  of  atrocity  on 
White  river. 

I  am  determined  to  apply  the  whole  force  at  my  disposal  to  bring  to 
punishment  the  infamous  perpetrators  of  such  crimes. 

Orders  go  to  Lieut.  Denny  to  place  his  whole  force  at  the  disposal 
of  the  civil  authorities,  to  arrest  the  individuals  suspected  of  the  murders. 
The  "  Hancock"  probably  did  not  leave  Holme's  Harbor  till  after 
the  arrival  of  Col.  Simmons,  and  I  have  no  question  that  the  Colonel  is 
now  at  Seattle,  endeavoring  to  bring  the  murderers  to  justice. 
I  am,  sir,  with  much  respect, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

GOT.  Wash.  Ter. 


[No.  56.] 

Walla  Walla  Valley,  W.  T.,  August  31,  1856. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  W.  T.  V.,  ) 


Capt.  SAMUEL  SWARTWOUT, 

Commanding  Naval  Forces,  Puget  Sound : 

SIR  : — On  my  departure  from  Olyrnpia  for  the  upper  country,  I  neg 
lected  to  write  to  you.  The  fact  was,  I  was  obliged  to  work  hard  to  | 
leave  my  business  in  proper  shape,  as  I  expected  to  be  absent  from  four 
to  six  weeks.  Previous  to  my  leaving,  I  had  a  very  satisfactory  confer 
ence  with  the  Indians  at  the  reservation  near  Steilacoom,  where  some 
three  hundred  persons,  just  in  from  the  war  ground,  were  present.  Gen. 
Tilton  will  be  able  to  give  you  the  particulars. 

I  find  things  in  the  upper  country  in  as  good  a  condition  as  I  ex 
pected.  The  Nez  Perces  are  very  friendly.  The  advance  of  them  reached 
my  camp  yesterday,  and  the  whole  nation  will  be  here  on  Wednesday. 
My  expresses  have  been  among  the  tribes  on  and  in  the  neighborhood  of 
the  Spokane  the  last  five  days,  and  Father  Ravalli,  the  superior  of  the 
Coeur  d'Lene  Mission,  and  a  gentleman  of  great  worth  and  intelligence, 
is  of  the  opinion  that  they  and  the  hostiles  in  that  quarter,  will  come  to 
the  council.  In  about  four  days,  I  shall  have  definite  information  in  re-» 
iation  to  the  parties  who  will  be  present  at  the  council. 

The  object  of  the  council  is  primarily  to  strengthen  the  friendship  of 


123 

the  tribes  who  have  not  joined  the  hostiles,  and  secondly,  to  give  an  op 
portunity  to  come  in  to  such  hostiles  as  are  willing  to  submit  to  the  jus 
tice  and  mercy  of  the  government. 

It  is  not  to  be  diguised,  however,  that  there  is  much  uneasiness  in  the 
interior,  and  that,  excepting  the  Nez  Perces,  a  little  thing  may  precipi 
tate  all  the  remaining  tribes  into  war.  I  have  letters  written  within  the 
last  twenty-three  days,  from  every  chief  of  the  friendly  tribes  to  the 
northward,  and  between  the  main  Columbia  and  the  Bitter  Root  mount 
ains,  which  show  this  to  be  the  case.  I  have  letters  from  Owhi  am^iis 
sou,  the  terms  of  which  are  utterly  inadmissable.  These  letters  are  un 
questionably  the  true  dictations  of  the  Indians,  as  they  are  written  by 
Father  Ravalli,  in  whose  word  I  can  place  implicit  confidence. 

For  these  reasons — for.  the  reason  that  some  little  time  must  elapse 
before  the  people  of  the  Sound,  and  especially  the  discharged  volunteers, 
become  satisfied  of  the  friendly  disposition  of  the  Indians,  and  also,  for 
the  reason  that  more  time  is  yet  required  to  thoroughly  test  the  fealty  of 
the  Indians  themselves,  I  trust  that  no  part  of  the  naval  forces  in  the 
Sound  will  be  withdrawn  for  the  present. 

Your  force  here  had  the  most  happy  effect  in  maintaining  the  friendly 
disposition  of  the  Indians  on  the  Sound.  It  has  been  actively  employed, 
and  the  Indians  have  learned  that  either  for  their  protection,  or  the  pro 
tection  of  the  people  of  the  Sound,  it  would  be  directed  with  energy  and 
skill. 

I  have  again  to  return  my  thanks  to  you,  to  Capt.   McDougall,  in 
command  of  the  "John  Hancock,  "  your  officers  and  men,  for  the  services 
which  they  have  rendered  in  maintaining  the  peace  of  the  Sound. 
Yery  truly  and  respectfully, 

Your  friend  and  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEYENS, 

Governor  "Washington  Territory, 


[No.  St.] 

U.  S.  STEAMER  "MASSACHUSETTS,"          ) 
Harbor  of  Seattle,  W.  T.,  Sept.  ltth,  1856.     j 

To  His  Excellency,  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Superintendent  Indian  Affairs,  W.  T.: 
SIR  : — Your  communication  from  Walla  Walla  valley  dated  August 
31st,  reached  me  yesterday.     Please  accept  my  thanks  for  the  valuable 


124 

information  it  contains  in  relation  to  the  present  state  of  Indian  affairs  in 
this  territory,  and  permit  me  to  tender  to  you  the  sincere  acknowledg 
ments  of  all  on  board,  for  the  complimentary  manner  with  which  you  have 
adverted  to  our  services  on  this  station,  in  the  suppression  .of  Indian  hos 
tilities  and  protection  of  the  white  inhabitants. 

I  have  forwarded  a  copy  of  your  letter  to  the  Navy  Department — 
believing  that  the  Hon.  Secretary  of  the  Navy  will  be  not  only  gratified, 
but  edified  with  the  perusal  of  its  interesting  contents. 

I  had  ordered  the  •"  Hancock  "  to  San  Francisco  before  the  receipt 
of  your  letter,  as  her  services  were  required  there,  and  her  furnaces  and 
flues  needed  extensive  repairs,  and  besides  I  did  not  feel  myself  justified, 
neither  would  I  have  been  sustained  by  the  Navy  Department,  in  detain 
ing  her  here,  subject  to  heavy  expenses,  after  ihe  war  had  terminated,  and 
with  it  the  exigency  under  which  she  had  been  fitted  out. 

la  a  letter  to  the  Navy  Department,  dated  August  JOth,  sent  by  the 
"Hancock,"  I  submitted  to  the  Honorable  Secretary  of  the  Navy,  the 
propriety  of  keeping  a  vessel  of  war  on  this  station,  for  at  least  several 
months  after  the  war  had  terminated,  or  until  affairs  should  become  per 
fectly  tranquil,  and  confidence  restored  ;  and  in  my  letter  to  the  Depart 
ment,  of  yesterday's  date,  enclosing  a  copy  of  yours,  I  reiterated  this  sug 
gestion  as  a  judicious  and  precautionary  measure. 

Very  respectfully,  your  most  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  SAMUEL  SWARTWOUT, 

Commander. 


[No.  58.] 

TT.  S.  STEAMER  "MASSACHUSETTS,      ) 
Port  Gamble,  W.  T.,  Nov.  23d,  1856.  ) 

His  Excellency,  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Sup't  Indian  Affairs,  Olympia,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — Having  received  information  from  Lieut  Col.  Casey  on  the 
evening  of  the  18th  inst.,  that  a  large  party  of  northern  Indians  were 
committing  depredations  up  the  Sound,  in  the  vicinity  of  Steilacoom,  I 
got  under  way  on  the  morning  of  the  19th  inst.,  and  proceeded  to  Steila 
coom  Reservation  and  Swan's  Logging  Camp,  in  Henderson's  Bay,  where 
I  found  that  the  Indians  alluded  to  had  been  recently  committing  depre 
dations  at  both  of  these  places,  and  at  the  reservations  they  had  a  fight 


125 

with  the  Sound  Indians,  in  which  two  of  the  northern  Indians  were  killed, 
and  one  of  their  canoes  captured.  Ascertaining  that  the  northern  Indi 
ans  had  left  Henderson's  Bay  the  day  before  we  arrived,  on  their  way 
down  the  Sound,  I  proceeded  with  all  despatch  in  pursuit  of  them,  and 
was  informed  the  same  evening  that  they  had  been  committing  depreda 
tions  at  Port  Madison,  but  had  left  there,  going  down  the  Sound.  I 
therefore  passed  Port  Madison  and  proceeded  to  Port  Gamble,  where  I 
arrived  on  the  afternoon  of  the  20th  iust,  and  fpuiid  the  northern  Indians 
encamped  in  large  force. 

Soon  after  anchoring,  I  despatched  two  boats  containining  eighteen 
18)  armed  men,  including  .an  interpreter,  under  the  command  of  Lieut. 
5Toung,  with  orders  to  have  a  friendly  talk  with  them,  and  endeavor  to  pre- 
srail  upon  them  to  leave  the  Sound  peaceably,  in  tow  of  this  vessel  for 
Victoria,  Vancouver's  Island.  I  also  directed  him  to  say  to  them  that  I 
vished  two  or  three  of  their  chiefs  to  come  on  board  and  have  a  friendly 
,alk  with  me,  promising  to  forgive  them  for  all  the  dc-predations  they  had 
committed,  provided  they  would  comply  with  niy  demands,  and  not  return 
to  the  Sound  any  more. 

The  Indians  came  down  to  the  beach  close  to  the  boats  in  large  force, 
armed,  and  in  a  menacing  manner,  threatened  to  shoot  any  one  who 
landed,  treating  my  propositions  with  contempt  and  ridicule,  shaking  their 
fists  at  the  officers^  and  men  in  the  boats,  and  daring  them  to  come  on 
shore  and  fight  them. 

As  Lieut.  Young  had  positive  orders  from  me  not  to  land,  or  come 
in  collision  with  the  Indians,  but  to  endeavor  to  prevail  upon  them  to 
leave  the  Sound  by  observing  forbearance  and  conciliation,  finding  this 
course  unavailing,  he  returned  on  board.  I  immediately  fitted  out  a 
larger  expedition,  consisting  of  the  launch  with  a  howitzer,  and  two  cut 
ters,  the  whole  force  being  composed  of  about  forty-five  (45)  men,  armed, 
with  an  interpreter  from  Port  Gamble,  under  the  command  of  Lieutenent 
Young,  with  orders  to  communicate  with  these  Indians  again,  by  sending 
the  interpreter  in  advance  with  a  flag  of  truce,  and  to  make  the  same  de 
mands,  observing  a  conciliatory  course  towards  them,  and  to  return  to  the 
ship  without  landing  or  molesting  them,  in  case  they  should  still  refuse  to 
comply  with  the  demands.  I  also  directed  the  interpreter  to  say  to  them 
that  I  had  a  large  force  under  my  command  which  it  would  be  impossible 
for  them  to  resist,  and  to  prevail  upon  them  by  every  persuasion  in  his 
power,  to  yield  to  my  demands,  and  not  compel  me  to  resort  to  compul 
sory  measures  in  order  to  remove  them  from  the  Sound,  promising  again 
to  forgive  them  for  all  the  depredations  they  had  committed,  provided 
they  would  leave  the  Sound  peaceably.. 

They  refused  most  positively  to  accede  to  my  propositions,  saying 


126 

they  would  go  as  soon  as  they  got  ready,  but  not  with  me,  and  if  possible, 
treated  Lieutenant  Young  in  a  more  insulting  and  threatening  manner 
than  when  he  first  landed  there.  He  therefore  returned  on  board,  again 
failing  to  accomplish  any  thing.  Finding  a  temporizing  coarse  no  longer 
available,  and  it  being  now  dark,  I  determined  in  the  morning  to  make 
preparations  for  an  attack,  for  which  purpose  I  removed  the  ship  as  close 
as  possible  to  their  encampment,  about  six  hundred  yards  distant,  and 
abreast  of  it — keeping  her  broadside  to  bear  upon  it  by  springs  upon  the 
cable,  and  at  seven  o'clock  the  next  morning,  I  despatched  Lieutenant 
Semmes,  in  the  first  cutter,  to  the  steamer  "Traveller,"  (which  vessel, 
with  the  launch  under  the  command  of  Lieut.  Forrest,  both  having  field 
pieces  on  board,  had  been  anchored  the  night  before  above  the  Indians' 
encampment,  so  that  their  guns  had  a  raking  fire  upon  it)  with  orders  to 
communicate  with  the  Indians  again,  through  a  flag  of  truce,  and  reiter 
ate  the  demands  which  had  been  twice  made  upon  them,  and  to  point  out 
to  them  our  preparations,  and  the  folly  on  their  part  to  make  any  further 
resistance,  but,  if  they  still  persisted  in  refusing  to  comply  with  my  propo 
sitions,  I  would  be  compelled,  very  reluctantly,  to  resort  to  force.  After 
the  interpreter  had  been  communicating  with  them  some  twenty  minutes, 
Lieutenant  Semmes  landed  with  a  force  of  twenty-nine  sailors  and  ma 
rines,  accompanied  by  Lieutenant  Forrest  and  Mr.  Fendall,  commander's 
clerk,  in  order  to  charge  them  should  it  become  necessary.  The  disem 
barkation  was  successfully  effected,  although  it  was  blowing  very  fresh  at 
the  time  from  the  northward  and  westward,,  with  a  heavy  swell  on,  they 
were  obliged  to  wade  up  to  their  waists  in  the  water,  and  carry  the  boat 
howitzer  in  their  arms. 

After  forming  the  party  on  the  beach,  Lieut.  Semmes  advanced  alone 
to  where  the  interpreter  was  having  a  talk  with  several  of  the  chiefs,  and 
delivered  my  message  to  them  through  the  interpreter.  They  made  some 
trivial  objections  about  acceding  to  it,  showing  a  great  deal  of  defiance 
in  their  manner,  and  those  who  were  unarmed,  armed  themselves  imme 
diately — commenced  carrying  their  goods  to  the  woods,  dancing  a  war 
dance,  and  making  every  preparation  for  fight.  I  had  directed  Lieutenant 
Semmes  to  endeavor  if  possible  to  bring  them  to  terms  without  having  a 
rencounter,  and  it  was  the  impression  of  every  body  here  that  they  would 
hold  out  no  longer  when  they  saw  the  formidable  .preparations  we  had 
made. 

It  was  not  until  after  every  argument  had  failed  to  convince  them  of 
the  folly  of  any  further  resistance,  and  they  had  taken  positions  behind 
Jogs  and  trees  with  their  guns  pointed  towards  our  party  on  the  beach  in 
,a  hostile  manner,  that  the  order  was  given  to  fire  the  field  pieces  from  the 
f-1  Traveller, "  and  it  appears  that  this  fire  and  that  from  the  Indians  were 


127 

. 

simultaneous — many  of  our  party  thinking  the  Indians  fired  first.  As 
soon  as  the  firing  commenced  I  gave  orders  to  direct  the  battery  of  this 
ship  towards  the  encampment  of  the  Indians,  and  that  part  of  the  woods 
where  they  appeared  to  be  concealed,  and  to  fire  upon  them  with  round 
shot  and  grape,  which  appeared  to  do  great  execution.  Under  the  cover 
of  our  guns,  the  field  piece  on  board  of  the  "Traveller,"  in  command  of 
acting  master's  mate  Cummings,  and  the  boat  howitzer  on  the  beach,  in 
charge  of  Mr.  Fendall,  Lieutenant  Simmes,  and  Forest,  with  a  party  of 
twenty-nine  sailors  and  marines,  made  a  very  gallant  charge  upon  the  In 
dians,  driving  them  from  their  encampment  into  the  woods,  and  were  ably 
supported  by  the  howitzers. 

All  who  were  engaged  in  this  charge  behaved  with  the  coolness  of 
veterans.  The  encampment  was  situated  at  the  base  of  a  high,  and  very 
steep  hill,  upon  which  the  trees  and  underbrush  were  so  very  thick,  and 
there  was  so  much  fallen  timber  upon  the  ground  as  to  render  it  almost 
impassable  except  for  savages. 

After  setting  fire  to  their  huts,  destroying  their  property,  amounting 
to  several  thousands  of  dollars,  and  disabling  all  but  one  of  their  canoes, 
( which  were  hauled  near  to  their  encampment,)  Lieutenant  Semmes, 
agreeably  to  my  orders,  returned  with  all  his  party  in  the  "Traveller" 
and  boats  alongside  this  ship,  having  held  possession  of  the  encampment 
from  about  twenty  minutes  past  seven  until  ten  A.  M. 

The  Indians  fought  with  desperate  courage  and  determination,  and 
worthy  of  a  better  cause. 

During  the  whole  day  a  fire  was  kept  up  from  this  vessel  upon  the 
Indians  whenever  they  were  seen  in  the  woods,  and  with  great  execution. 

I  regret  to  state  that  early  in  the  engagement  one  of  my  best  men 
was  killed,  and  another  wounded  in  the  left  hand.  These  were  the  only 
casualties  on  our  side,  although  several  of  the  officers  and  men  attached 
to  the  shore  party  were  struck  by  slugs,  which  glanced  off  from  their  pis 
tols  and  bowie  knives  with  little  or  no  injury  to  their  persons. 

Lieutenant  Young,  I  am  sorry  to  say,  was  disabled  the  night  previ 
ous  to  the  fight  from  a  fall  in  the  launch.  Lieutenant  Fairfax,  although 
on  the  sick  list,  being  aware  of  the  small  number  of  officers  on  duty,  very 
promptly  offered  his  services,  which  I  found  invaluable  from  the  able  man 
ner  in  which  he  conducted  operations  on  board  this  ship,  especially  as  I 
was  absent  part  of  the  time  in  a  boat  supervising  the  detachments  ashore, 
and  on  board  the  "Traveller. " 

The  weather  having  moderated,  and  the  sea  becoming  smoother  io 
the  afternoon,  I  despatched  Lieut,  Semmes,  third  assistant  engineer  Rind, 
Mr.  Fendall,  and  acting  master's  mate  Moore,  with  a  party  of  thirty- 
seven  sailors  and  marines  on  shore  to  destroy  the  good  canoe  which  they 


128 

' 

left  in  the  morning,  and  see  that  the  others  were  rendered  unseaworthy, 
in  order  to  prevent  the  Indians  from  leaving  here  during  the  night.  This 
duty  was  performed  in  a  gallant  manner,  and  I  am  happy  to  say,  without 
the  loss  of  a  single  man,  although  during  the  whole  time  they  were  sub 
jected  to  a  heavy  fire  from  the  enemy. 

During  both  of  these  shore  attacks  a  constant  and  very  effective  fire 
was  kept  up  from  the  battery  of  this  ship  and  the  field  pieces  on  board  of 
the  "  Traveller. "  On  the  afternoon  of  the  fight,  I  sent  a  squaw  who  had 
been  taken  prisoner  to  the  Indians,  offering  to  forgive  them  if  they  would 
surrender,  go  with  me  to  Victoria,  and  from  thence  proceed  to  their 
homes  and  never  return  again  to  the  Sound.  In  reply,  they  sent  me  a 
message  of  defiance,  saying  they  would  fight  as  long  as  there  was  a  man 
of  them  alive. 

On  the  morning  of  the  2  3d  inst.,  I  received  a  message  from  the  In 
dians  sueing  for  peace,  and  shortly  afterwards  I  was  visited  by  two  of 
their  principal  chiefs,  who  surrendered  unconditionally,  and  begged  for 
mercy  in  a  most  humble  and  suppliant  manner. 

They  informed  me  when  the  fight  commenced  they  had  one  hundred 
and  seventeen  (117}  men,  exclusive  of  the  squaws  and  boys:  that  there 
had  been  twenty-seven  killed,  one  chief  wounded  in  the  thigh,  and  a  num 
ber  missing,  whom  they  presumed  were  wounded  in  the  woods.  They  said 
they  were  in  a  deplorable  condition,  having  lost  all  their  property,  and 
that  they  had  little  or  nothing  to  eat  for  the  last  forty-eight  hours. 

I  furnished  them  with  provisions,  and  promised  to  let  them  off  with 
out  further  chastisement  provided  they  would  go  in  this  ship  to  Yictoria 
and  never  return  again  to  the  Sound.  This  they  promised  most  faithfully 
to  do. 

I  shall  receive  them  all  on  board  to-day,  and  proceed  with  them  im 
mediately  to  Victoria. 

Our  whole  available  force,  including  officers,  during  this  engagement, 
amounted  to  ninety-six,  forty-one  of  which  we  detailed  for  the  shore  party 
and  steamer  "  Traveller. "  The  remaining  fifty-five  were  left  on  board 
this  ship  for  the  purpose  of  working  her  battery.  The  majority  were 
composed  of  officers,  officer's  attendants  and  boys. 

The  following  officers,  Lieut.  Fairfax,  first  assistant  engineer  Patter 
son,  civil  engineer  Sutton,  acting  gunner  McAlpine,  acting  boatswain  Ty 
ler,  acting  carpenter  Berry,  acting  master's  mate  Howard,  Mr.  Slater, 
pilot,  and  part  of  the  time  third  assistant  engineer  Rind,  and  acting 
master's  mate  Moore,  were  on  board  of  this  ship,  who,  together  with  the 
crew,  performed  the  duties  devolving  upon  them  in  a  most  praiseworthy 
manner. 


129 

As  so  much  gallantry  and  zeal  was  displayed  by  the  officers  and 
crew  engaged  in  this  fight,  it  would  be  invidious  for  me  to  particularize 
any  further. 

The  above  statement  is  in  substance  my  report  to  the.  Navy  Depart- 
ment,  which  I  have  concluded  to  forward  to  you,  presuming  it  would  be 
interesting. 

I  am  satisfied  the  northern  Indians  after  this  severe  chastisement, 
will  not  visit  the  Sound  again,  especially  if  the  inhabitants  hold  out  no 
inducements  by  offering  tlieni  employment,  and  it  would  doubtless  be  ad 
visable  to  prevail  upon  the  legislature  to  enact  a  lav/  making  it  a  penal 
offence  for  any  white  inhabitant  of  the  Sound  to  harbor  or  employ  any  of 

the  northern  Indians. 

Ujr .  '  •    ii  '•  t    A  •  '  vir  •        •      •  ,  '/[';•'    '  f  ,.,*    ,.,"'  f^.  f^* 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 
>,•.!  Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed,)  S.  SWAKTWOUT, 

Commander. 


P.  S. — November  24th.— The  total  loss  of  killed  and  wounded  on 
the  part  of  the  Indians  is  now  ascertained  to  be  twenty-seven  killed  and 
twenty-one  wounded,  among  the  latter  one  of  their  chiefs.  This  great 
mortality  is  doubtless  owing  to  the  coolness  of  the  officers,  sailors  and 
marines,  their  deliberate  aim  and  accuracy  of  fire  in  discharging  the  great 
guns,  howitzers  and-  small  arms,  which  ha*  been  attained  from  frequent 
drilling  and  target  practice.  The  sailors  and  marines  who  composed  the 
shore  party  fired  their  pieces  with  deliberate  aim  and  great  coolness,  and 
loaded  them  whilst  charging,  without  stopping.  Great  credit  is  due  to 
Lieutenant  Young  and  Sergeant  Quinlaw,  under  whose  instructions  these 
sailors  and  marines  have  been  drilled. 

Our  loss  would  have  been  more  had  not  the  charging  party  been  so 
ably  protected  by  the  battery  from  this  ship  and  the  howitzers.  The  shot 
and  shell  were  thrown  from  these  guns  with  surprising  accuracy. 

I  have  now  eighty-seven  of  these  Indians  on  board.  As  soon  as  the 
remainder  of  them  come  on  board  I  will  proceed  to  Victoria,  land  them 
there,  and  see  that  they  are  sent  to  their  own  country. 

The  above  statement  is  in  substance  my  report  to  the  Navy  Depart 
ment,  which  I  have  concluded  to  forward  to  you,  presuming  it  would  be 
interesting. 

I  am,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  S.  SWARTWQUT, 

Commanding  U.  S.  Nayal  Forces,  Puget  Sound. 

17 


130 

[No.  59.] 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  DEPARTMENT  or  THE  PACIFIC,   ) 
Benicia,  September  18,  1855.         ) 

His  EXCELLENCY, 

THE  GOVERNOR  OF  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  Olympia : — 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  letter  of 
August  24th,  and  30th,  enclosing  petitions  from  citizens  of  Washington 
Territory,  for  the  establishment  of  a  military  post  on  or  near  Bellingham 
Bay. 

The  recommendation  contained  in  your  letters  has  been  anticipated, 
in  so  far  that  it  is  the  intention  to  establish  a  military  post  on  Bellingham 
Bay  as  soon  as  practicable,  and  for  that  purpose  a  reconnoissance  has 
been  made  under  my  orders  by  Capt.  Stoneman  and  Lieut.  Whiting.  The 
troops  expected  to  reinforce  the  companies  in  this  department  not  arriving 
in  season,  the  building  of  the  post  is  necessarily  postponed  until  next 
spring  or  summer. 

I  am,  sir,  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  JOHN  E.  WOOL, 

Major  General. 


[No.  60.] 

EXECUTIVE  OF 

Olympia,  Oct.  20,  1855. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,     ) 


Gen.  JOHN  E.  WOOL, 

Commanding  Pacific  Division  U.  S.  A.,  Benicia,  Cal.: 

SIR  : — Owing  to  the  pressing  necessity  for  ammunition  to  supply  the 
force,  regular  and  volunteer,  in  this  territory  during  the  present  Indian 
war,  I  have  the  honor  to  request  that  powder  and  ball  be  sent  to  the  va 
rious  military  posts  here  to  furnish  cartridges  for  the  quota  of  arms  due 
Washington  territory,  and  which  I  am  advised  by  the  chief  of  the  Ord 
nance  Department  at  Washington  City,  have  been  ordered  from  the  arse 
nal  at  Benicia,  California,  to  Olympia,  W.  T. 

The  officers  commanding  Forts  Yancouver  and  Steilacoom  have  ta 
ken  the  field  with  all  the  disposable  regular  force,  strengthened  by  all  the 
volunteers  which  safety  to  the  settlements  upon  the  Columbia  river  and 
Paget  Sound, will  warrant. 


131 

As  the  enemy  number  about  two  thousand  fighting  men  now  in  arms, 
and  success  may  cause  the  tribes  west  of  the  Cascade  mountains  to  join 
the  Yakima  and  other  tribes  now  at  war,  I  respectfully  suggest  that  as 
many  troops  as  can  be  spared  from  California  be  sent  to  Fort  Vancover, 
the  Dalles  and  Fort  Steilacoom. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  ob't.  servant, 
(Signed,;  C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor  W.  T. 


[No.  61.] 

COUNCIL  GROUND,  CAMP  STEVENS,         7 
Walla  Walla  Valley,  W,  T-,  May  22d,  1855.  j 

Major  General  JOHN  E.  WOOL, 

Commanding  Pacific  Division,  Vancouver,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — I  feel  it  my  duty  to  call  your  attention  to  the  urgent  necessity 
of  establishing  the  greater  portion  of  the  troops  now  stationed  on  the 
Columbia  river,  at  or  near  this  place,  and  to  express  the  opinion  that  as 
regards  the  Indian  service,  depots  only  are  required  at  Vancouver  and  the 
Dalles. 

Its  position  to  overcome  hostile  Indians,  and  to  protect  the  several 
immigrant  routes  is  remarkably  central.  It  is  in  direct  connection  with 
the  great  South  Pass  immigrant  trail,  and  with  all  the  northern  routes  ex 
plored  by  me  from  the  sources  of  the  Missouri.  Roads  run  to  the  Nez 
Perces  country,  to  the  Yakima  country,  and  via  the  Cascades  to  the 
Sound  and  to  Colville.  It  is  the  central  point  of  Indians  within  two  to 
three  hundred  miles — the  Yakimas,  the  Clickatats,  the  Pischous,  the 
Okinakanes,  the  Walla  Wallas,  the  Indians  of  the  Walla  Walla  to  the 
Dalles,  the  Cayuses,  the  Palouses,  the  Spokanes,  the  Colviile  Indians,  the 
Cceur  d'Alenes,  the  Nez  Perces,  and  the  Snakes,  numbering  some  nine 
thousand.  No  force  is  required  at  the  Dalles  for  protection  against  the 
Indians  in  that  neighborhood.  A  guard  here  would  have  the  effect  of  a 
garrison  at  the  Dalles  for  the  Indians  in  that  quarter.  The  Indians,  how 
ever,  are  generally  friendly,  except  the  Cayuses  and  the  Snakes.  The 
Cayuses  have  been  so  disorderly  since  measures  have  been  taken  to  call 
the  neighboring  tribes  into  Council  to  purchase  their  lands  and  place  them 


132 

on  reservations,  that  the  settlers  have  been  put  in  jeopardy,  and  sub- 
agent  Palmer,  of  Oregon,  and  myself  have  made  a  requisition  on  Major 
Raines  to  send  a  military  force  to  tliis  place  to  be  present  at  the  council, 
a  requisition  with  which  he  has  promptly  complied.  Our  camp  is  in  the 
heart  of  the  country  claimed  by  the  Cayuses.  The  Snakes  have  been 
unusually  insolent  of  late,  having  seized  cattle  within  the  past  few  weeks 
at  the  very  gates  of  Fort  Boise,  and  their  insolence  has  incited  the  Cay- 
uses  to  assume  a  tone  of  defiance  towards  the  settlers  and  the  authorities. 
The  Snakes  ought  to  be  summarily  punished  for  tho  outrages  of  the  past 
year. 

A  post  at  this  place  to  be  effective,  should  consist  mainly  of  cavalry, 
and  should  be  garrisoned  by  a  force  large  enough  to  furnish  moveable 
columns  for  the  protection  of  the  immigrant  trails  during  the  season  of 
immigration.  A  wagon  road  is  to  be  built  by  authority  of  congress  from 
Fort  Benton  near  the  great  Falls  of  the  Missouri,  to  this  valley,  which 
will  open  an  immigrant  route  from  the  states  bordering  the  great  lakes. 
The  movea'blc  columns,  besides  protecting  the  trails,  might  be  called  on 
to  furnish  one  or  two  sraall  detachments,  to  occupy  under  canvass,  tempo 
rary  stations  at  the  Grand  Round  and  Fort  Boise,  where  Indians  at  cer 
tain  seasons  resort  in  great  numbers  for  the  purpose  of  trade. 

I  am  aware  that  the  force  at  your  disposal  is  inadequate  to  accom 
plish  all  that  is  desired.  But  I  will  respectfully  urge  that  such  force  as 
you  have  at  your  disposal  will  be  most  effectual  at  this  point. 

This  valley  affords  great  facilities  for  the  maintainance  of  a  military 
post.  Inexhaustible  grass,  summer  and  winter,  abundance  of  timber  and 
fuel,  beef  for  a  large  force  through  the  year  ; .  already  settlers  enough  in 
the  vicinity  to  furnish  vegetables  ;  lands  adapted  to  the  cereals  and  to 
grass,  to  furnish  bread  and  forage  after  the  first  ^ear.  There  is  an  admi 
rable  site  for  a  post  near  the  saw  mill  of  Whitman's  Mission.  I  am  seven 
miles  above  the  site  now  occupied  by  Stanford,  Brooks,  £  Noble. 

As  you  are  now  in  the  country,  I  will  urge  that  you  visit  this  valley, 
and  judge  from  your  own  observation  and  investigation  of  its  character 
as  a  military  centre  of  operations.  It  can  be  supplied  by  wagon  trains 
through  nearly  the  entire  year  from  the  Dalles.  The  experience  of  the 
Cayuse  war;  in  connection  with  the  outrages  of  the  Snakes  of  the  past 
year,  and  the  present  insolent  deportment  of  both  has  impressed  me  with 
the  conviction  that  unless  sonic  step  of  the  kind  I  have  indicated  is  taken, 
a  contingency  may  arise  which  will  involve  the  country  in  even  greater 
expenditures  than  that  for  which  congress  has  recently  made  appropriations, 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Superintendent,  W,  T, 


133 

[No.  62.] 

HEAI 

Walla  Walla  Valley,  W.  T.,  Dec.  28,  1855 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  CAMP  W.  T.  JTOLUNTEERS,          ) 


Major  General  JOHN  E,  WOOL, 

Commanding  Pacific  Division,  Vancouver,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — I  reached  this  point  some  thirty  miles  to  the  eastward  of  Fort 
Walla  Walla,  on  the  Columbia,  on  the  20th  instant.  We  have  had  ex 
traordinary  success  in  our  long  march  from  the  waters  of  the  Missouri, 
and  I  trust  that  the  conferences  with  the  Indian  tribes  on  my  way  will 
have  some  effect  in  preventing  tribes  now  peaceable  from  becoming  hos 
tile. 

A  very  important  result  has  been  gained  by  the  operations  of  the 
volunteer  forces  in  this  valley.  The  Cay  uses,  Walla  Wallas,  Umatillas, 
the  Tye,  Deschutes  and  a  portion  of  the  Palouse  Indians,  numbering 
from  five  to  six  hundred  warriors,  have  been  defeated  and  driven  across 
the  Snake  river.  They  are  now  scattered  along  the  north  bank  of  the 
Snake,  from  its  mouth  to  the  Kez  Perces  country,  and  the  bulk  of  them 
are  believed  to  be  in  camp  in  the  first  wood  on  the  Palouse  river.  From 
the  best  information  I  can  gain,  I  am  of  opinion  that  not  more  than  five  to 
six  hundred  Indians  participated  in  the  fight.  These  Indians  are  in  con 
stant  communication  with  the  Yakimas  under  Kam-y-a-kin,  and  I  have 
reports  that  he  is  meditating  an  attack  with  these  combined  forces  upon 
the  troops  in  the  valley.  These  reports  I  do  not  credit.  I  am  of  opin 
ion  that  the  Indians  desire  the  war  to  be  put  off  till  spring,  in  the  hopes 
that  their  numbers  may  be  augmented  by  the  Spokanes,  Okinakanes,  Col- 
villes,  Caeur  d'Allaines,  and  the  tribes  north  of  the  line,  and  in  case  of  de 
feat,  of  having  the  means  of  retreat  to  the  north,  and  across  the  mount 
ains  eastward  to  the  buffalo  country. 

The  Coeur  d'Allaines,  Spokanes,  Colvilles,  and  Okinakanes,  number 
about  twenty-one  hundred  souls,  and  some  four  to  five  hundred  warriors, 
only  a  portion  armed  with  guns.  The  three  former  tribes,  numbering 
about  seventeen  hundred,  I  called  into  council  on  the  Spokane  early  this 
month,  and  have  received  from  them  the  most  unqualified,  assurances  that 
they  would  reject  all  the  overtures  of  the  hostile  tribes,  and  maintain  re 
lations  of  friendship  with  the  government,  but  they  have  been  very  much 
shaken  by  the  efforts  made  to  involve  them  in  the  war,  and  if  operations 
are  suspended  till  spring,  there  would  be  great  danger  that  they  would 
then  be  met  in  arms. 

g 

The  Kez  Perces  are  staunch  arid  entirely  reliable.  Some  seventy  of 
their  warriors  well  armed,  accompanied  me  from  their  own  country  all 
the  way  to  my  camp.  I  crossed  the  mountains  with  twenty-five  men,  and 


134 

by  accessions  from  the  miners  and  citizens  who  had  fled  for  protection  to 
the  Nez  Perces  country,  and  from  other  sources,  we  had  a  force  of  volun 
teers  organized  in  two  companies,  and  numbering  in  all  fifty-two  men. 

The  volunteers  of  Oregon  in  this  valley  number  about  four  hundred 
men. 

I  am  of  opinion  that  all  the  tribes  from  the  Dalles  to  the  Nez  Per 
ces  country,  and  from  the  Blue  Mountains  to  the  Spokanes,  were  in  arms 
against  the  government — have  not  over  twelve  hundred  males,  and  that 
they  cannot  bring  into  the  field  more  than  one  thousand  effective  men. 
My  sources  of  information  are  good,  and  I  write  with  confidence.  The 
hostile  tribes,  throwing  out  bands  known  to  be  friendly  and  in  charge  of 
local  agents,  do  not  number  quite  five  thousand  souls. 

On  reaching  this  point  I  exceedingly  regretted  to  learn  that  the  Ya- 
kima  country  had  been  abandoned.  In  my  opinion  it  could  have  been 
held  by  two  hundred  men,  and  have  been  supplied  by  Walla  Walla. 
There  is  a  good  road  from  Walla  Walla  to  the  Yakima  mission.  The 
distance  is  about  ninety  miles  ;  little  or  no  snow  lays  on  the  ground  for 
more  than  two-thirds  the  distance,  and  at  the  imssion  snow  is  seldom 
more  than. six  inches  deep. 

The  whole  valley  is  remarkably  favorable  for  winter  operations ; 
grass  and  wood  abundant,  and  there  are  various  streams  of  excellent  wa 
ter.  The  snow  lays  on  the  ground  but  a  short  time,  and  then  but  a  few- 
inches  deep,  and  scarcely  interfering  with  the  grazing  of  animals. 

On  the  Snake,  the  Palouse  and  its  tributaries,  the  grass  is  also  good, 
and  there  is  a  large  quantity  of  pine.  The  pine  on  the  Palouse  is  found 
eighteen  miles  from  its  mouth.  From  the  Palouse  to  the  Columbia,  north 
of  the  Snake,  the  country  is  not  so  favorable.  There  is  not  much  wood, 
nor  much  running  water,  and  the  grass  is  of  an  inferior  quality.  There 
is  nothing  but  drift  wood  on  the  Columbia  till  you  reach  the  mouth  of 
the  Wenatchepan,  where  the  pine  commences. 

From  the  mouth  of  the  Palouse,  and  from  the  several  crossings 
above,  there  is  no  difficulty  in  moving  to  the  Spokane  country  all  through 
the  winter.  The  grass  is  uniformly  good.  There  is  abundant  pine  on  the 
Spokane,  and  there  will  be  wood  for  fires  at  all  the  intermediate  camps 
on  the  route.  The  information  here  given  of  the  country,  is  mainly  the 
result  of  personal  examinations.  I  can  vouch  for  the  accuracy  of  it  all. 

I  send  you  a  map  of  the  country  from  the  Cascades  to  the  Bitter 
Root  mountains,  showing  the  Indian  tribes,  their  numbers,  their  warriors, 
the  points  these  hostiles  are  now  believed  to  occupy  ;  the  several  routes 
for  the  movement  of  troops  from  each  ;  the  several  crossings  of  the  Snake 
river,  and  the  winter  snow  line,  over  which  the  Indians  cannot  cross  when 


135 

pursued  by  troops,  and  the  line  within  which  troops  can  operate  all 
through  the  winter. 

I  will  respectfully  recommend  that  you  will  urge  forward  your  prep 
arations  with  all  possible  despatch.  Get  all  your  disposable  force  in  this 
valley  in  all  of  January  :  establish  a  large  depot  camp  here  :  occupy  Fort 
Walla  Walla  and  the  Yakima  country,  and  be  ready  early  in  February  to 
take  the  field. 

February  is  generally  a  mild  and  open  month.  February  and  March 
are  the  favorable  months  for  operations :  all  the  mountain  passes  are 
stopped  :  the  Indians  are  destitute  of  food  :  the  rivers  are  easy  to  cross. 
In  April  the  Indians  can  retreat  hi  the  Pend  d'Oreille  route  to  the  east 
ward  of  the  mountains.  In  May  the  Coeur  d'Alleines  route  is  also  open. 
The  streams  are  swollen  and  the  salmon  begins  to  run.  In  June  routes 
are  abundant,  and  the  streams  most  difficult  to  cross.  If  operations  be 
vigorously  prosecuted  in  February  and  March  there  is  little  probability 
of  any  of  the  tribes  now  peaceable  taking  part  in  the  war.  This  is  the 
conclusion  to  which  I  am  brought  by  the  recent  council  held  by  me  with 
Indian  tribes  on  the  Spokane. 

I  do  not  entertain  the  idea  that  all  operations  can  be  brought  to  a 
close  in  these  two  months.  The  strength  of  the  combination  can,  how 
ever,  be  broken,  but  the  country  should  be  held  all  through  the  ensuing 
year. 

As  to  transportation,  I  would  urge  that  a  line  of  barges  be  estab 
lished  on  the  Columbia.  That  supplies  be  hauled  in  wagons  from  the 
Dalles  to  the  mouth  of  the  Deschutes,  and  thence  by  water  to  Fort  Walla 
Walla :  thence  to  the  Yakima  country,  (the  mission  J  to  the  crossing  at 
the  mouth  of  the  Palouse,  and  to  any  point  which  may  be  selected  in 
this  valley  as  a  depot  camp,  supplies  can  be  hauled  in  wagons.  The  roads 
are  all  good. 

When  operations  are  extended  to  the  north  of  the  Snake,  and  the 
north  bank  is  held,  a  new  depot  camp  can  be  established,  and  the  water 
line  extended. 

The  Hudson's  Bay  barge  should  fee  adopted,  only  be  increased  in 
size.  The  barge  most  commonly  in  use  carries  six  thousand  pounds,  and 
requires  seven  men.  But  the  great  difficulty  in  the  river  is  at  the  falls  at 
the  mouth  of  the  Deschutes  river,  which  is  avoided  by  hauling  in  wagons 
to  above  that  point.  A  barge  could  be  constructed  which  would  carry 
twelve  thousand  pounds,  require  eight  men,  and  make  two  round  trips  a 
month  from  the  Deschutes  to  Fort  Walla  Walla.  Supplies  for  five  hundred 
men,  say  four  pounds  per  day,  including  clothing,  ammunition,  &c.,  and  for 
age  for  five  hundred  animals,  say  twelve  pouads  to  each  animal  per  day,  would 
require  ten  of  these  barges,  eighty  men,  and  about  oae  hundred  three 


136 

yoke  ox  teams,  running  from  the  Dalles  to  the  Deschutes.  An  ox  team 
could  not  make  more  than  three  round  trips  from  the  Dalles  to  Fort  Wal 
la  Walla  in  two  months,  and  this  would  be  more  than  ought  reasonably 
to  be  expected.  To,  transport  the  above  amount  of  supplies  and  forage 
in  wagons  would  require  one  hundred  ox  teams  and  one  hundred  men. 
Unless  foraged  on  the  road,  oxen,  after  making  one  round  trip,  must  have 
rest,  and  a  large  number  of  spare  oxen  must  be  at  hand  at  both  ends  of 
the  line  to  keep  the  teams  constantly  in  motion.  It  will  probably  be  very 
difficult  to  get  early  into  the  field  so  large  a  train.  A  pack  train  will  be 
still  more  expensive ;  it  will  be  wanted  in  advance.  Supplies,  in  my  judg 
ment,  will  mostly  have  to  be  transported  from  the  depot  in  this  valley  by 
pack  trains. 

The  Hudson's  Bay  people  at  Fort  Vancouver  can  put  their  hands  on 
the  men  who  understand  making  these  barges.  I  estimate  that  five  barges 
could  be  built  at  Portland,  and  be  in  readiness  for  the  loads  at  the  mouth 
of  the  Deschutes  in  twenty  days,  and  five  more  in  thirty  days.  It  is  a 
small  matter  to  make  them. 

I  derive  my  information  in  regard  to  the  barges  from  Mr.  Sinclair,  of 
the  Hudson's  Bay  Company,  a  gentleman  of  sound  judgment  and  large 
experience,  and  most  familiarly  known  to  all  the  citizens  of  the  Columbia 
valley. 

I  believe  it  is  practicable  to  run  stern  wheel  steamers  from  the  mouth 
of  the  Deschutes  to- above  Walla  Walla,  and  as  far  as  the  Priest's  rap 
ids.  But  time  will  be  required  to  get  a  suitable  one  on  the  route,  and  to 
establish  wood  yards.  There  is  nothing  but  drift  wood  in  the  immediate 
banks  of  the  Columbia  below  the  mouth  of  the  Wenatchepan.  I  would 
respectfully  urge,  however,  that  -  your  early  attention  be  given  to  this 
matter. 

The  plan  of  campaign  which  occurs  to  me  as  possible,  is  as  follows : 
occupy  the  Walla  Walla  valley  in  January  :  establish  a  large  depot  camp 
on  the  Touchet :  hold  Fort  Walla.  Walla  :  get  up  supplies  by  a  line  of 
barges  oil  the  Columbia :  have  ah  advance  post  on  the  Tucauan,  and 
pickets  at  the  crossings  of  the  Palouse,  and  opposite  the  bend  of  the 
Tucanan.  This  disposition  of  the  troops  will  make  you  master  of  the 
Walla  Walla  valley,  give  you  control  of  the  crossings  of  the  Snake,  and 
enable  you  to  get  information  of  the  enemy.  In  February,  cross  the 
Snake  :  attack  the  enemy  on  the  Palouse  :  establish  a  depot  camp  at  the 
first  wood;  occupy  the  forks  of  the  Snake  :  astablish  the  line  of  barges 
up  the  Snake  to  the  mouth, of  the  Palouse,  and  push  forward  a  column 
to  .the  Okinakin; 

These  operations  will  probably  drive  all  the  hostile  Indians  into  the 
Yakima  country,  west  of  the  Columbia  river,  when,  move  over  the  Co- 

•vtt"**      '~f>*   •'£      '  .:r:-'~'J 


137 

iumbia:  cross  into  the  Yakiina  country -and  put  the  enemy  to  his  last 
battle.  He  cannot  cross  the  mountains  till  May,  and  all  the  troops  left 
behind  at  Fort  Walla  Walla,  and  atdepot  camps,  except  indispensable 
guards,  marching  up  seasonably  from  Fort  Walla  Walla  by  the  line  of 
the  Yakima  river,  would,  with  the  movements  of  the  column  from  north 
of  the  Snake,  drive  him  into  a  canyon,  from  whence  he  could  not  easily 
escape. 

There  will  be  no  difficulty  whatever,  in  making  the, crossing  of  the 
Snake.  To  the  upper  crossings  canoes  could  be  brought  from  the  Nez 
Perces  country.  For  the  Palouse  country,  with  a  few  tools,  boats  could 
be  made  in  a  few  days  on  the  Touchet,  and  be  transported  thither  on 
wheels.  My  India  rubber  boats  for  the  Indian  service  were  unfortunately 
cut  to  pieces  by  the  Indians  at  Fort  Walla  Walla.  During  the  whiter 
months  the  streams  are  low. 

The  question  occurs — Is  this  plan  compatible  with  the  force  at  your 
command  ? 

In  my  judgment  three  to  four  hundred  effective  troops  will  signally 
defeat  any  force  which  the  enemy  could  .bring  together  from  the  tribes 
now  hostile.  In  my  plan  of  operations,  at  Fort  Walla  Walla,  at  the  de 
pot  camp  of  the  valley,  and  to  hold  the  river  crossings,  two  hundred  men 
would  be  required.  If  a  smaller  force  were  left  it  migtyt  tempt  the  Ya- 
kimas  under  Kamiakin  to  move  rapidly  into  his  own  country,  .if  not  al 
ready  there,  cross  the  Columbia,  below  the  mouth  of  the  Touchet,  steal 
all  the  animals,  and  break  up  the  communication.  If  very  much  reduced, 
he  might  successfully  attempt  an  attack  upon  the  troops.  With  two  hun 
dred  men,  I  do  not  think  he  would  attempt  any  thing  on  this  side  of  the 
Columbia.  The  barges,  in  brigades  of  five  each,  manned  tyy  forty  men, 
I  do  not  think,  with  a  small  force  on  the  Umatilla,  would  be  in  danger  of 
attack.  They  could  destroy  all  the  canoes,  and  take  from  the  enemy  the 
means  of  crossing  the  river  below  Walla  Walla. 

In  the  advance  movement  on  the  Palouse,  there  should  be  five  hun 
dred  men.  This  whole  force  will  be  disposable  for  the  first  blow  on  the 
Palouse.  Two  hundred  men  will  hold  the  line  of  the  Snake,  and  three 
hundred  will  be  left  for  the  advance  movement  on  the  Columbia  below 
Okinakin. 

When  the  enemy  is  driven  into  the  Yakima  country,  from  the  depot 
camps  north  and  south  of  the  Snake,  a  strong  column  can  be  thrown 
across  the  Columbia  at  the  mouth  of  the  Snake,  say  two  hundred  men, 
which,  with  one  hundred  and  fifty  from  the  column  moving  Cowards -Okin 
akin,  will  give  five  hundred  and  fifty  men. ...  I  would  advise  that  one  hun 
dred  and  fifty  men  of  that  column  be  left  to  cut  oft"  retreat  in  any  attempt 
to  cross  the  river. 
18 


138 

/- 

In  the  plan  of  the  campaign,  the  troops  are  interspersed  between 
the  hostile  tribes  and  the  friendly  ones,  and  they  are  brought  to  a  firm 
stand,  where  there  is  scarcely  a  probability  of  escape.  If  the  Yakima 
country  were  held  simultaneously  with  this  valley  and  with  operations 
upon  the  Palouse,  it  might  drive  the  enemy  upon  the  Spokane,  and  thus 
cause  them  to  embark  On  the  river.  The  holding  of  the  Yakima  country 
would,  however,  effectually  protect  the  line  of  the  Columbia,  and  render 
it  unnecessary  to  leave  so  large  a  force  in  this  valley.  But  this  plan 
would  require  more  troops  than  the  other. 

By  the  Walla  Walla  valley,  in  these  papers,  I  mean  the  whole  coun 
try  in  the  re-entering  of  the  Snake. 

With  a  small  post  on  the  Umatilla,  and  the  troops  required  at  the 
Dalles,  eight  hundred  effective  men  will  be  required.  Making  allow 
ances  for  the  sick  list  and  for  casualties,  one  thousand  men  should  be  in 
the  field.  There  are  here,  or  are  on  their  way,  five  hundred  volunteers 
from  Oregon.  I  hear  that  you  have,  or  will  soon  have,  five  to  six  hun 
dred  regulars.  The  volunteers  with  me  have  been  mustered  into  the  serv 
ice  of  the  territory  for  a  specific  duty,  and  will  be  discharged  when  I  go 
down  to  the  Dalles.  On  the  Spokane  I  was  able  to  learn  nothing  of  the 
plans  of  the  campaign,  and  only  knew  that  Kamiakin,  with  all  his  forces, 
was  believed  to  be  on  the  Spokane  side  of  the  Columbia  river,  and  that 
the  Cayuses  and  Walla  Wallas  were  assembled,  some  six  hundred  warriors, 
in  the  Walla  Walla  valley.  I  expected  at  that  time  to  be  obliged  to 
force  my  way  through  this  body  with  my  small  force  of  less,  at  that  time, 
than  eighty  men,  aided  by  the  Nez  Perces,  to  the  Dalles.  The  Nez 
Perces  chiefs  who  accompanied  me  from  the  Blackfoot  council,  tendered 
to  me  the  services  of  one  hundred  and  fifty  flighting  men  of  the  nation, 
and  it  was  not  till  I  had  been  some  time  with  them  in  Council  in  their 
own  country  making  the  necessary  arrangements,  that  I  learned  of  the 
defeat  of  these  tribes,  and  that  the  road  was  opened.  I  took  with  me, 
however,  seventy  Nez  Perces  well  armed,  besides  young  men  to  herd  and 
guard  our  animals. 

Olympia,  W.  T.,  Jan.  29,  1856. 

The  above  was  written  to  be  despatched  by  an  express  to  you  at 
Vancouver.  I  concluded,  however,  to  come  in  person,  and  reached 
Vancouver  the  day  you  departed  from  Portland  to  San  Francisco. 

I  have,  since  my  return,  carefully  examined  the  Condition  of  affairs 
on  the  Sound — have  visited  nearly  every  point,  and  informed  myself  thor 
oughly  of  our  necessities. 

We  are  now  feeding  four  thousand  Indians  on  the  Sound  alone.  A 
band  of  hostiles  numbering  from  two  to  four  hundred,  are  in  the  field 


139 

The  whole  country  is  exposed  to  attacks  from  them  and  the  northern  In 
dians. 

All  our  people  are  living  in  block-houses.  „  The  town  of  Seattle  was ' 
attacked  on  the  26th  instant,  and  the  families  compelled  to  go  on  ship 
board.  The  whole  of  King  county  has  been  deserted,  and  the  inhabit 
ants  driven  within  the  line  of  defenses  of  the  town  of  Seattle.  We  need 
at  least  six  hundred  troops  to  cope  with  the.  enemy,  and  the  war  will,  I 
fear,  from  the  nature  of  the  country,  be  a;  protracted  one. 

In  conclusion,  it  is  due  to  frankness,  that  I  should  state  that  I  have 
determined  to  submit  to  the  department  the  course  taken  by  the  military 
authorities  in  disbanding  the  troops  raised  in  the  territory  of  Washington 
for  my  relief.  No  effort  was  made,  although  the  facts  were  presented 
both  to  Major  General  Wool  and  Major  Raines-,  to  send  me  assistance. 
The  regular  troops  were  all  withdrawn  into  garrison,  and  I  was  left  to 
make  my  way,  the  best  I  could,  through  tribes  ,  known  to  be  hostile.  It 
remains  to  be  seen  whether  the  commissioner,  selected  by  the  President 
to  make  treaties  with  Indians  in  the  interior  of  the  continent,  is  to  be  ig 
nored,  and  his  safety  left  to  chance. 

I  had  no  fear  of  my  own  safety,  but  the  facts  in  the  settlements  did 
not  warrant  such  belief.  I  simply,  with  fifty  odd  men,  and  one  hundred 
and  fifty  Nez  Perces,  would  have  been  compelled  to  fight  six  hundred  In 
dians  in  the  Walla  Walla  valley,  had  it  not  been  for  the  operations  of  the 
Oregon  volunteers. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Superintendent  Indian  Affairs,  W.  T. 

i 

N.  B. — The  map  is  not  quite  ready.  I  will  send  it  to  the  post  at 
Vancouver. 


[No.  63.] 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  DEPM'T.  OF  THE  PACIFIC,  1 

i.  f 


Benicia,  California,  12th  February,  1856. 

To  His  Excellency,  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  of  Washington  Territory : 

SIR  : — I  received  your  communication  of  the  23d  of  December,  and 
29th  January,  1856,  on  the  6th  instant,  but  too  late  to  reply  to  it  by  the 


140 

return  <  steamer.  For  tjie  information  which  it  imparts  you  have  my 
thanks.  When  you ,  know  my  instructions  to  Colonel  Wright  of  the  9th 
infantry  at  Vancouver,  you  will  discover  that  many  of  your  suggestions 
have  been  anticipated.  In  presenting,  however,  your  plan  of  campaign, 
which  is  a  very  extended  one,  you  should  have  recollected  that  I  have 
neither  the  resources  of  a  territory,  nor  the  treasury  of  the  United  States, 
at  my  command.  Still  you  may  be  assured  that  the  war  against  the  In 
dians  will  be  prosecuted  with  all  the  vigor,  promptness  and  efficiency  I  am 
master  of,  at  the  same  time  without  wasting  unnecessarily,  the  means  and 
resources  at  my  disposal,  by  untimely  an^  unproductive  expeditions.  With 
the  additional  force  which  recently  arrived  at  Vancouver  and  at  the 
Dalles,  I  think  I  shall  be  able  to  bring  the  war  to  a  close  in  a  few  months, 
provided  the  extermination  of  the  Indians,  which  I  do  not  approve  of, 
is  not  determined  on,  and  private  war  prevented,  and  the  volunteers  with 
drawn  from  the  Walla  Walla  country. 

Whilst  I  was  in  Oregon,  it  was  reported  to  me  that  many  citizens, 
with  a  due  proportion  of  volunteers,  and  two  newspapers,  advocated  the 
extermination  of  the  Indians.  This  principle  has  been  acted  on  in  sev 
eral  instances  without  discriminating  between  enemies  and  friends,  which 
has  been  the  cause  in  southern  Oregon,  of  sacrificing  many  innocent  and 
worthy  citizens.  As  in  the  case  of  Major  Lupton  and  his  party  (volun 
teers)  who  killed  twenty-five  Indians,  eighteen  of  whom  were  women  and 
children.  These  were  friendly  Indians  on  their  way  to  the  'Indian  reser 
vation,  where  they  expected  protection  from  the  whites.  This  barbarous 
act  is  the  cause  of  the  present  contest  in  the  Rogue  river  country,  and,  as 
Capt.  Judah,  IT.  S.  A.,  reports,  is  retaliatory  of  the  conduct  of  Major 
Lupton. 

By  the  same  mail  which  brought  me  your  communication,  I  received 
one,  now  before  me,  from  a  person,  who  I  think  incapable  of  misrepresenta 
tion,  whichinforms  me  that  the  friendly  Cayuses  are  every  day  menaced  with 
death  by  Governor  Curry's  volunteers.  The  writer  says  : — "  They  have 
despoiled  these  Indians,  who  have  so  nobly  followed  the  advice  of  Mr.  Pal 
mer  to  remain  faithful  friends  to  the  Americans,  of  their  provisions." 
;'  To-day,"  he  says,  "these  same  volunteers,  without  discipline  and  without 
orders,  are  not  yet  satisfied  with  rapine  and  injustice,  and  wish  to  take 
away  the  small  remnant  of  animals  and  provisions  left.  Every  day  they 
run  off  the  horses  and  cattle  of  the  friendly  Indians.  These  have  been 
indignant,  and  will  not  be  much  longer  restrained  from  resisting  conduct 
so  unworthy  of  the  whites,  who  have  made  them  so  many  promises  to 
respect  and  protect  them,  if  they  remained  faithful  friends."  The  writer 
further  says< — "  if  the  volunteers  are  not  arrested  in  their  brigand  actions, 
the  Indians  will  save  themselves  by  flying  to  the  homes  of  their  relations, 


141 

the  Nez  Perces,  who  have  promised  them  help,  and  then  all  the  Indians 
of  Oregon  and  Washington  would  join  in  the  common  defence.  This  in 
formation  is  in  a  great  measure  confirmed  by  persons  who,  I  am  assured, 
enjoy  your  respect  and  confidence." 

I  need  not  say,  although  I  had  previously  instructed  Col.  Wright  to 
take  possession  of  the  Walla  Walla  country  at  the  earliest  moment  prac 
ticable,  that  I  directed  him  to  give  protection  as  soon  as  he  could  to  the 
friendly  Cayuses,  from  the  depredations  of  the  volunteers.  It  is  such 
conduct  as  here  complained  of,  that  irritates  and  greatly  increases  the 
ranks  of  the  hostile  tribes,  and  if  ^ie  Nez  Perces  join  in  the  war  against 
us,  which  I  hope  to  prevent,  we  shall  require  a  much  larger  force  than  we 
now  have  in  Oregon  and  Washington  territories  to  resist  savage  barbari 
ties  and  to  protect  the  whites. 

,  I  have  recently  sent  to  Puget  Sound  two  companies  of  the  ninth  in 
fantry.  These,  with  the  three  companies  there,  will  give  a  force  of  nearly 
or  quite  four  hundred  regulars,  commanded  by  Lieut.  Col.  Casey.  This 
force,  with  several  ships  of  war  in  the  Sound,  to  which  will  be  added  in  a 
few  days,  the  United  States  steamer  Massachusetts,  it  seems  to  me,  if 
rightly  directed,  ought  to  be  sufficient  to  bring  to  terms  two  hundred  In 
dian  warriors.  Capt.  Keys,  in  his  last  report  received,  says  there  are  not 
quite  two  hundred  in  arms  in  that  region.  Lieut.  Col.  Casey  has  been  di 
rected  to  prosecute  the  war  with  the  greatest  vigilance  and  activity.  The 
gallant  Captain  Swartwout,  who  goes  in  the  Massachusetts,  commander- 
in-chief  of  the  naval  forces  in  the  Sound,  will,  I  am  assured,  zealously, 
efficiently,  and  I  trust  successfully,  co-operate  with  Col.  Casey  to  bring 
the  war  to  a  close. 

In  regard  to  the  operations  east  of  the  Cascade  mountains,  if  Gov. 
Curry's  volunteers  have  not  driven  the  friendly  Cayuses  and  the  Nez  Per 
ces  into  the  ranks  of  the  hostile  tribes,  and  they  should  be  withdrawn 
from  the  Walla  Walla  country,  I  have  great  hopes  that  I  shall  be  able 
to  bring  the  Indians  in  that  region  to  terms,  notwithstanding  the  volun 
teers  killed  the  chief  Peu-peu-mox-mox,  scalped  him,  cut  off  his  ears  and 
hands,  as  reported  by  volunteers,  and  sent  them  to  their  friends  in  Oregon. 
All  this  too,  after  he  met  them  with  a  flag  of  trqce,  declaring  he  "was 
for  peace — that  he  did  not  wish  to  fight — that  his  people  did  not  wish  to 
fight,"  and  that  if  any  of  his  young  men  had  done  wrong,  he  would  make 
restitution,  while  he  at  the  same  tune  offered  the  volunteers  cattle  for 
food.  Such  conduct  may  have  caused  feelings  difficult  to  overcome.  I 
trust,  however,  I  will  be  able  to  do  it. 

As  soon  as  the  war  is  terminated  east  of  the  Cascade  mountains,  I 
will  be  able  to  send  all  my  disposable  forces  against  the  Indians  on  Rogue 
river  and  Puget  Sound.  It  is,  however,  due  to  truth  to  say,  that  at  no 


142 

time  were  volunteers  required,  or  in  any  sense  of  the  term  necessary,  fo 
the  defense;  of  the  inhabitants  of  Oregon  from  the  depredations  or  bar 
barities  of  Indians  occupying  the  country  east  of  the  Cascade  mountains 
Nor  was  there  any  circumstance  to  justify  Governor  Curry  in  sending  hit 
troops  from  Oregon  to  Washington  territory  to  make  war  on  the  Wall; 
Wallas,  from  whom  the  Oregonians  had  no  danger  whatever  to  appre 
hend.     On  this  subject  I  would  refer  you  to  the  report  of  the  Secretar} 
of  War,  dated  the  third  of  December,  relating  to  the  affairs  of  the  army, 
in  which  he  says  "  the  department,  at  this  distance,  and  in  the  absence  oi 
more  definite  information,  especially  19  regard  to  the  extent  of  the  com 
foination  among  the  hostile  tribes,  cannot  judge  what  volunteer  reinforce 
ments  to  the  regular  troops  may  be  necessary.     This  is  a  matter  which 
must  be  necessarily  left  to  the  military  commander  of  the  department  of 
the  Pacific." 

At  the  conclusion  of  your  communication,  you  say,  "  it  is  due  to 
"  frankness  that  I  should  state  that  I  have  determined  to  submit  to  the 
"  departmant  the  course  taken  by  the  military  authorities  in  disbanding 
"  the  troops  raised  in  the  territory  of  Washington  for  my  relief.  No  ef- 
4t  fort  was  made,  although  the  facts  were  presented  both  to  Major  Gen. 
"  Wool,  and  Major  Raines  to  send  me  assistance.  The  regular  troops 
"  were  all  withdrawn  into  garrison,  and  I  was  left  to  make  my  way,  the 
"  best  I  could,  through  tribes  known  to  be  hostile.  It  remains  to  be  seen 
"  whether  the  commissioner,  selected  by  the  President  to  make  treaties 
"  with  Indians  in  the  interior  of  the  continent,  is  to  be  ignored  and  his 
"  safety  left  to  chance. n 

In  your  "frankness"  and  determination  to  represent  me  to  the  de 
partment,  I  trust  you  will  be  governed  by  truth  and  truth  only.  Per 
haps  it  is  equally  due  to  frankness  on  my  part  to  say,  that  your  commu 
nication  is  the  first  that  I  have  received  in  relation  to  yourself,  or  on  any 
subject  whatever,  touching  the  Indian  war,  from  any  civil  functionary, 
either  in  Washington  or  Oregon  territories  ;  and  I  have  received  but  one 
from  the  military,  and  that  was  from  Col.  Nesmith,  who  requested  me  to 
furnish  him  with  two  howitzers,  which  I  refused.  I  have  only  to  add  that 
I  disbanded  no  troops  raised  for  your  relief ;  and  your  communication 
gave  me  the  first  intelligence  that  any  were  raised  for  such  a  purpose. 
I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  JOHN  E.  WOOL, 

Major  General 


143 

[No.  64.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,         > 
':M:M  Olympia,  March  15,  1856.  f 

Major  General  JOHN  E.  WOOL, 

Commanding  Pacific  Division : 

SIR  : — I  hear  this  morning  of  your  arrival  in  the  territory  of  Wash 
ington — of  your  having  left  Vancouver  in  a  steamer  for  the  Sound,  and 
that  you  are  now  probably  at  Steilacoom. 

In  the  discharge  of  my  responsibilities  as  the  highest  federal  officer 
of  the  territory  of  Washington,  and  hi  view  of  my  oath  of  office,  I  have 
called  out  a  large  force  of  volunteers,  and  a  band  of  Indian  auxiliaries, 
who  are  now  actively  engaging  the  enemy  in  the  field. 

,  Actuated  by  no  motive  than  the  pubh'c  good,  I  have  endeavored  to 
co-operate  with  the  military  and  naval  forces  in  the  Sound,  with  the  ob 
ject  that  all  and  every  available  means  of  carrying  on  the  war  should  be 
applied  as  a  unit  to  its  prosecution. 

I  therefore  send  the  Adjutant  General  of  the  volunteer  forces,  James 
Tilton,  Esq.,  to  confer  with  you.  He  is  instructed  to  advise  you  of  the 
plan  of  operations  which  I  have  adopted,  the  force  in  the  field,  and  the 
condition  of  the  country.  I  have  to  acquaint  you  of  my  desire  to  co-ope 
rate  with  you  in  any  plans  you  may  think  proper  to  adopt,  and  I  shall 
be  pleased  to  hear  from  you  in  reference  to  the  prosecution  of  the  cam 
paign. 

I  am,  sir,  with  much  respect, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Sup't.  Indian  Affairs,  W.  T. 


[No.  65,  j 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,     ) 
Olympia,  March  20th,  1856.  } 


Major  General  JOHN  E.  WOOL, 

Commaning  Pacific  Division : 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  commu 
nication  of  the  12th  February,  and  to  state  generally,  in  answer  thereto, 


144 

that  the  events  of  the  past  four  weeks,  in  connection  with  your  own 
official  course,  affords  satisfactory  evidence  that  the  most  objectionable 
positions  of  your  letter  have  been  abandoned,  and  that  you  have  finally 
become  awakened  to  the  true  condition  of  the  Indian  war,  and  are  seek 
ing  to  make  some  amends  for  the  unfortunate  blunders  of  the  past.  You 
have  probably  learned  how  much  you  have  been  misled  in  your  views  of 
the  operations  by  the  Oregon  volunteers,  and  how  much  unnecessary 
sympathy  you  have  wasted  on  the  infamous  Peu-peu-mox-mox.  For  your 
own  reputation  I  have  felt  pain  at  the  statement  made  in  your  letter  to 
me,  for  I  am  an  authoritative  witness  in  the  case,  and  in  the  letter  which 
submitted  your  own  action  in  refusing  to  send  *me  succor.  I  have  pre 
sented  briefly  the  facts,  showing  the  unmitigated  hostility  of  that  chief. 
I  assert  that  I  can  prove,  by  incontrovertible  evidence,  that  Peu-peu-mox- 
mox  had  been  hostile  for  months — that  he  exerted  his  influence  to  effect  a 
general  combination  of  the  tribes — that  he  plundered  Walla- Walla  and 
the  settlers  of  the  valley,  distributing  the  spoils  to  his  own  and  the  neigh 
boring  tribes  as  war  trophies — that  he  rejected  the  intercession  of  the 
friendly  ISTez  Perces  to  continue  peaceful — that  he  had  sworn  to  take  my 
life,  and  cut  off  my  party — that  he  and  the  adjoining  tribes  of  Oregon 
and  Washington  had  taken  up  their  military  position  as  warriors  at  the 
proper  points  of  the  Walla- Walla  valley — and  all  this  before  the  volun 
teers  of  Oregon  moved  upon  him. 

Peu-peu-mox-mox  was  slain  fairly.  I  have  investigated  that  matter 
on  the  ground — having  not  only  the  testimony  of  the  officers  of  the  Ore 
gon  volunteers  and  the  eye-witnesses  of  his  death,  but  the  testimony  of 
the  friendly  Indians,  both  Cayuses  and  Nez  Perces.  He  was  not  en 
trapped  by  a  flag  of  truce.  I,  of  course,  reprobate  the  indignities 
subsequently  committed  upon  his  person. 

Are  you  aware,  sir,  that  the  great  victory  achieved  by  the  gallant 
volunteers  of  Oregon  in  the  Walla-Walla  valley  was  fought  near  the  line 
separating  the  two  territories,  and  that  more  of  the  Indians  of  Oregon 
were  engaged  in  it  than  the  Indians  of  Washington?  Your  letter  would 
seem  to  show  that  you  were  ignorant  of  that  fact.  Where,  sir,  did  you 
derive  your  information  ? 

Half  the  Walla  Wallas  live  permanently  in  Oregon  :  all  the  Urna- 
tillas,  over  one-half  the  Cayuses,  all  of  the  John  Day's,  Deschutes  and 
Tyh  Indians.  These  were  the  Indians  that  met  the  volunteers  of  Oregon  ; 
and  all  these  Indians  were,  by  an  arrangement  made  between  General 
Palmer  and  myself,  under  the  charge  of  the  Oregon  agents.  These  In 
dians  were  reinforced,  after  the  first  three  days'  fight,  by  one  hundred 
Pelouses,  detached  from  the  force  under  Kam-a-aikin. 

That  some  turbulent  men  of  the  Oregon  volunteers  have  done  injury 


to  the  friendly  Cayuses,  is  unquestionable,  and  it  is  reprobated  by  the  au 
thorities  and  citizens  of  both  territories,  it  has,  however,  been  grossly 
exaggerated. 

Had,  sir,  the  regulars  moved  up  to  the  Walla  Walla  valley,  as  I 
most  earnestly  urged  both  Major  Raines  and  Col.  Wright,  both  by  letter 
and  in  person,  these  Indians  would  have  been  protected.  They  could  not 
act,  because  they  had  no  authority  from  you.  The  presence  of  a  single 
company  would  have  been  sufficient. 

The  responsibility,  if  evil  follows,  will  attach  sir,  to  you,  as  well  aa 
to  the  volunteers.  The  Nez  Perces,  though  a  portion  live  in  Oregon, 
are,  by  the  arrangement  before  referred  to,  between  General  Palmer  and 
myself,  all  under  my  administrative  charge,  and,  if  left  alone  will  con 
tinue  friendly.  I  have  heard  from  them  long  since  the  friend  to  whom 
y6u  allude.  I  have  a  staff  officer  in  their  country.  They  are  organized 
for  self-protection,  and  if  your  operations  are  conducted  with  ordinary 
judgment,  not  a  man  of  them  will  join  in  the  war.  I  have  to  refer  you, 
sir,  to  my  memoir  for  my  views,  which  will  be  found  to  bear  the  test  of 
experience,  and  I  would  advise  you,  sir,  in  considering  that  memoir,  to 
bear  in  mind  that,  as  regards  the  opinions  of  men  who,  with  perhaps  not 
very  inferior  abilities  to  your  own,  having  greater  special  experience,  and 
a  knowledge  of  the  country  and  the  Indians,  to  which  you  cannot  pre 
tend,  it  will  be  prudent  not  to  despise  them. 

In  your  letter  of  the  12th  January,  you  state  —  "  I  have  recently 
sent  to  Puget  Sound  two  companies  of  the  ninth  infantry.  These,  with 
the  three  companies  there,  will  give  a  force  of  nearly  or  quite  four  hun 
dred  regulars,  commanded  by  Lieut.  Col.  Casey.  This  force,  with  several 
ships  of  war  in  the  Sound,  to  which  will  be  added  in  a  few  days,  the 
United  States  steamer  Massachusetts,  it  seems  to  me,  if  rightly  directed, 
ought  to  be  sufficient  to  bring  to  terms  two  hundred  Indian  warriors. 
Capt.  Keys,  in  his  last  report  received,  says  there  are  not  quite  two  hun 
dred  in  aims  in  that  region." 

Here  you  have  .  exposed  a  very  confident  opinion.  You  thought 
proper  to  quote  Capt.  Keys  as  to  the  number  of  Indians,  but  you  found 
it  did  not  suit  your  purpose  to  refer  to  the  requisitions  he  had  made  upon 
you  for  six  additional  companies,  two  of  which  only,  had  been  sent  for 
ward  ;  nor  could  you  find  time  to  refer  to  the  fact  that  Col.  Casey  had 
recommended,  after  the  war  was  over,  that  eight  companies  should  be 
permanently  stationed  for  the  protection  of  the  Sound. 

You  think  volunteers  entirely  unnecessary,  although,  after  having  re 
ceived  from  the  executive  information  as  to  the  condition  of  the  country. 

It  is  now  March,  a  month  later,  and  you  send  two  companies 
19 


146 

of  regulars  and  direct  Col.  Casey  to  call  upon  me  for  two  additional 
companies  of  volunteers. 

Thus  have  you  practically  acknowledged  that  you  were  wrong  and 
that  I  was  right,  and  thus  have  I  given  your  testimony,  as  against  your 
self,  in  vindication  of  the  necessity  of  my  calling  out  volunteers.  As  re 
gards  this  call  for  volunteers,  it  is  presumed  that  Col.  Casey  informed 
you  that  the  whole  available  force  of  the  Sound  territory  was  bearing 
arms,  and  that  the  great  proportion  of  them  were  actively  engaging  the 
enemy.  That,  organized  in  two  battalions,  the  northern  battalion  occu 
pied  the  line  of  the  Snohomish,  where  they  were  establishing  blockhouses, 
and  closing  the  passes  of  the  Snoqualmie. 

That  the  central  battalion  was  occupying  the  military  road  over  the 
Nachess,  hi  relation  to  which  road  and  its  military  bearing,  your  aid-de 
camp,  Lieut.  Arnold,,  will  be  able  to  give  you  full  information,  and  that 
on  both  lines,  decisive  blows  had  been  struck,  and  also  that  it  was  beyond 
the  ability  of  our  citizens  to  raise  an  additional  company  of  even  fifty 
men,  to  honor  your  requisition. 

I  have  a  right  to  hold  you  to  a  full  knowledge  of  our  condition  here. 
If  you  say  you  were  misinformed,  then  you  are  not  fit  for  your  position, 
and  should  give  place  for  a  better  man.  If  you  were  informed,  then  your 
measures  as  a  military  man,  manifest  an  incapacity  beyond  example. 

Therefore,  the  call  on  me  for  two  companies  of  volunteers,  is  a  call 
upon  me  to  withdraw  the  troops  now  in  the  field,  with  sixty  to  eighty 
days'  provisions,  after  decisive  blows  have  been  struck,  and  when  every 
thing  is  ready  to  strike  a,  and  perhaps  the  decisive  blow  to  end  the  war. 

I  am,  sir,  too  old  a  soldier  ever  to  abandon  a  well  considered  plan  of 
campaign,  or  to  do  otherwise  than  to  press  forward  with  all  my  energies 
in  the  path  marked  out,  promising:,  as  it  does,  the  speedy  termination  of 
the  war  ;  and  sir,  I  am  too  wary  a  man  not  to  detect  the  snare  that  has 
been  laid  for  me.  You  never  expected,  sir,  that  the  requisition  would  be 
complied  with.  You  knew  that  it  was  a  practical  impossibility  ;  but  not 
having  the  courage  to  acknowledge  your  errors,  it  was  resorted  to  in  the 
hope  that  my  refusing  your  requisition  might  enable  you  to  occupy  my 
vantage  ground,  and  throw  me  on  the  defensive.  I  hold  you,  sir,  to  the 
facts  and  necessity  of  the  case,  clearly  demonstrating,  by  your  own  con 
fession,  the  propriety  of  my  course,  and  the  necessity,  on  my  part,  of  a 
steady  adherence  to  it. 

I  enclose  a  copy  of  my  letter  to  Lt.  Col.  Casey,  in  which  my  views 
in  regard  to  this  scheme  of  yours  are  given  in  full. 

You  have  referred  to  the  atrocities  committed  upon  the  friendly  In 
dians  by  the  whites.  I  know  nothing  of  what  has  occurred  in  southern 
Oregon,  but  I  have  to  state  that  no  man,  to  my  knowledge,  in  the  terri 


147 

tory  of  Washington,  advocates  the  extermination  of  the  Indians.  The 
authorities  here  have  not  only  used  every  exertion  to  protect  them,  but 
their  exertions  have  been  completely  successful.  Did  you  learn,  sir,  in 
your  brief  visit  to  the  Sound,  that  nearly  four  thousand  Indians,  friendly 
Indians,  had  been  moved  from  the  war  ground  on  the  eastern  shore  of  the, 
Sound  and  its  vicinity,  to  the  adjacent  islands,  and  have  for  nearly 
five  months  been  living  in  charge  of  local  agents?  That  not  an  Indian  in 
the  whole  course  of  this  war  has  been  killed  by  the  whites,  except  in 
battle?  That  where  a  military  commission,  composed  of  a  majority  of 
volunteer  officers,  tried  some  months  since,  eight  Indians,  only  one  was 
convicted,  that  the  sentence  of  death,  passed  upon  him,  has  not  yet  been 
executed?  It  is  the  good  conduct  of  our  people,  sir,  that  has  so  strength 
ened  the  hands  of  the  authorities  as  to  enable  them  to  control  these 
friendly  Indians,  and  to  prevent  any  considerable  accessions  to  the  ranks 
of  the  hostiles. 

And  yet  we  have  daily  rumors,  and  have  had  for  the  last  five  months, 
that  this  tribe  and  that  would  break  out.  For,  at  times,  great  uneasiness 
here  prevailed  amongst  them,  and  they  are  Indians,  and  as  such,  they  sym 
pathise  with  their  brethren.  But  the  course  of  the  authoritirs  here  has 
been  firm  and  decisive,  commanding  the  confidence  of  the  community,  and 
the  affections  of  the  Indians.  Besides  these  four  thousand  on  reserva 
tions  in  charge  of  local  agents,  we  have  three  thousand  more  on  the  wes 
tern  shore  of  the  Sound,  and  on  the  Straits  of  De  Fuca. 

I  have  recently  heard  from  the  Ne&  Perces,  the  Cceur  d'Aleines  and 
the  Spokanes.  The  former  are  firm  in  their  allegiance,  but  the  Spokanes 
urge  me  to  have  a  military  force  on  the  great  prairie  between  them  and 
the  hostile  Indians,  so  these  latter  may  not  be  driven  to  their  country, 
and  thus  incite  their  young  men  to  war.  The  letter  of  Garry,  chief  of 
the  Spokanes,  is  a  most  plaintive  and  earnest  call  for  help,  so  his  hands 
may  be  strengthened  in  keeping  his  people  to  their  plighted  faith  ;  and 
the  coincidence  is  remarkable,  that  this  Indian  chief,  a  white  man  in  edu 
cation  and  views  in  life,  should  ask  me  to  do  the  very  thing  I  have  urged 
upon  you,  for  you  will  remember  in  my  memoir,  I  urge  that  the  troops,  in 
operating  against  the  Indians,  should  be  interposed  between  the  friendly 
and  hostile  tribes  to  prevent  those  now  friendly  from  joining  in  the  war. 
I  have,  sir,  studied  the  character  of  these  Indians,  and  my  views  as  to 
the  influence  upon  the  friendly  Indians  of  the  mode  of  carrying  on  the 
war  against  the  hostiles,  are  confirmed  by  the  only  highly  educated  Indian 
of  either  Oregon  or  Washington,  and  the  head  chief  of  the  tribe  in  refer 
ence  to  which  I  made  the  recommendation  and  felt  the  most  solicitude. 
Not  a  word  has  ever  passed  between  us  in  reference  to  the  subject. 

You  are  doubtless  informed  that  the  Indians  have  commenced  offen- 


148 

sive  operations  east  of  the  Cascades,  and  have  attacked  the  steamer  ply 
ing  between  the  Cascades  and  Dalles,  and  the  trains  moving  towards 
Walla  Walla,  This  bold  course  will  enable  them  to  operate  upon  the 
Spokanes,  the  Colvilles,  the  Okinekanes,  the  lower  Pen  d'Oreilles,  the 
Co3ur  d'Aleines,  who  have  five  hundred  warriors,  and  the  tribes  north  of 
the  line  who  have  three  to  five  hundred  more.  Unless  struck  east  of  the 
Cascades  before  the  close  of  May,  you  will  have  to  meet  a  combination  of 
from  eighteen  hundred  to  two  thousand  warriors.  Their  families  and 
stock  will  be  in  secure  retreats  in  the  mountains,  and  unless  before  that 
time,  the  Indians  here  are  completely  subdued,  the  passes  over  the  mount 
ains  secured  by  blockhouses,  it  will  be  within  the  range  of  probabilities 
that  a  large  portion  of  the  friendly  Indians  on  the  Sound  can  be  incited 
to  hostility.  The  Clickatats  and  Yakimas  know  all  the  passes  of  the 
Cascades,  and  can  readily  cross  after  the  month  of  May.  Hence  the  ne 
cessity  of  the  most  vigorous  blows  now,  of  no  change  of  plan,  of  having 
troops  in  the  settlements  to  guard  against  any  sudden  outbreak  of  the 
friendly  Indians.  Two  men  have  recently  been  killed  within  fourteen 
miles  of  the  capital  of  the  territory,  by  a  band  of  marauders,  who  have 
only  been  driven  out  within  the  last  few  days. 

It  seems  to  me  that  the  present  condition  of  things  imposes  upon 
you  the  necessity  of  recognizing  the  services  of  the  volunteers  of  the  two 
territories  now  in  the  field,  and  of  your  doing  every  thing  to  facilitate 
their  operations.  But  if  you  waste  your  exertions  in  the  fruitless  effort 
to  induce  either  the  authorities  to* withdraw  their  troops — to  abandon  their 
plan  of  campaign  in  order  to  comply  with  your  requisition — or  to  meet 
your  peculiar  notions,  I  warn  you,  now,  sir,  that  I,  as  the  Governor  of 
Washington,  will  cast  upon  you  the  whole  responsibility  of  any  difficul 
ties  which  may  arise  in  consequence,  and  that  by  my  firm,  steady  and  en 
ergetic  course,  and  by  my  determination  to  co-operate  with  the  regular 
service,  whatever  may  be  the  provocation  to  the  contrary,  I  will  vindi 
cate  the  justice  of  my  course  and  maintain  my  reputation  as  a  faithful 
public  servant.  I  warn  you,  sir,  that  unless  your  course  is  changed,  you  will 
have  difficulties  in  relation  to  which  your  only  salvation  will  be  the  firm 
and  decided  policy  of  the  two  territories,  whose  services  you  have  ignored, 
whose  people  you  have  calumniated,  and  whose  respect  you  have  long 
since  ceased  to  possess. 

You  have  erred  in  your  judgment  as  to  volunteers  being  needed  at 
all  here  ;  and,  as  I'  have  before  observed,  in  calling  for  volunteers  after 
increasing  a  force  deemed  by  you  sufficient,  two  companies,  you  have  in 
dicated  the  justice  and  necessity  of  my  acts  in  organizing  the  people  of 
the  territory  as  its  executive. 

I  haye  thus,  practically,  your  own  endorsement  that  I  have  judgecf 


149 

rightly  when  you  were  in  error,  and  my  judgment  having  thus  been  sanc 
tioned  in  calling  out  volunteers,  I  prefer  to  rely  upon  it  in  the  matter, 
both  of  the  numbers  required  and  of  the  organization  which  will  give 
them  the  most  efficiency. 

Can  you  presume,  sir,  to  be  able  to  correct  your  opinions  by  a  hasty 
visit  to  the  Sound  of  a  few  days  ?  and  do  you  expect,  after  having  taken 
my  deliberate  course,  that  I  shall  change  my  plans  on  a  simple  intimation 
from  you,  without  even  a  conference  between  us  ?  Were  you  desirous, 
sir,  to  harmonize  the  elements  of  strength  on  the  Sound,  you  would  have 
seen  that  it  was  your  duty,  at  least  to  have  informed  me  of  your  presence, 
and  to  have  invited  me  to  a  conference.  There  was  ample  time  for  it ; 
for  it  was  less  difficult  for  me  to  reach  you,  on  receiving  notice,  than  Col. 
Casey,  and  I  have  shown  throughout  the  most  anxious  desire  to  co-operate 
with  the  regular  service. 

Whilst  in  the  country  in  the  fall  and  winter,  you  complained  that 
the  authorities  of  the  two  territories  did  not  communicate  with  you. 
Why  did  you  not  inform  me  of  your  presence  in  the  Sound  on  your  arri 
val  at  Steilacoom  ?  I  learned  of  your  probable  arrival,  by  simply  learn 
ing  on  Saturday  morning  by  mj  express,  of  your  having  left  Vancouver, 
and  I  immediately  dispatched  the  chief  of  my  staff  to  wait  upon  you 
with  a  letter.  But  you  were  gone  ;  and  whether  you  did  not  know  the 
courtesy  due  to  the  civil  authorities  of  the  territory,  who  had  taken  the 
proper  course  to  place  themselves  in  relations  with  you,  or  whether  you 
were  unwilling  to  meet  a  man,  whose  safety  you  had  criminally  neglected, 
and  whose  general  views  you  have  been  compelled  to  adopt,  is  a  matter 
entirely  immaterial  to  me.  I  enclose  a  copy  of  the  letter  transmitted  by 
the  hands  of  Adj't.  Gen.  Tilton,  the  Surveyor  General  of  Washington 
territory. 

After  the  defeat  of  the  Indians  in  the  Walla  Walla  valley,  they 
were  completely  cowed,  and  for  weeks,  spies  only  crossed  the  Snake  river 
to  examine  the  country  ;  gradually  becoming  emboldened,  they  have  since 
come  over  in  small  parties,  and  got  some  small  successes  in  running  off 
horses,  and  now  they  have  more  than  recovered  from  the  prestige  of  that 
defeat.  They  are  making  attacks  on  the  whole  line  of  communication, 
and  are  more  firm  and  united,  more  hopeful,  and  have  more  strength 
than  when  the  war  commenced. 

What,  sir,  would  have  been  the  effect  if  Gov.  Curry  had  not  made 
the  movement  which  you  condemn,  and  my  party,  with  the  friendly  Nez 
Perces,  had  been  cut  off  ?  Sir,  there  would  have  been  a  hurricane  of  war 
between  the  Cascades  and  Bitter  Root,  and  three  thousand  warriors 
would  now  be  in  arms.  Every  tribe  would  have  joined,  including  tb« 


150 

Snakes,  and  the  spirit  of  hostility  would  have  spread  east  of  the  Bitter 
Root  to  the  Upper  Pend  d'Oreilles. 

I  believe,  sir,  I  would  have  forced  my  way  through  the  five  or  six 
hundred  hostiles  in  the  Walla  Walla  valley,  with  fifty  odd  white  men 
and  one  hundred  and  fifty  Nez  Perces.  Would  you  have  expected  it  ? 
Could  the  country  expect  it  ?  And  what  was  the  duty  of  those  having 
forces  at  their  command  ?  Gov.  Curry  sent  his  volunteers  and  defeated 
the  enemy.  You  disbanded  the  company  of  Washington  territory  volun 
teers  raised  expressly  to  be  sent  to  my  relief. 

>i> ,  J  have  reported  your  refusal  to  send  me  succor  to  the  department  of 
War,  and  have  given  some  of  the  circumstances  attending  that  refusal. 
The  company  was  under  the  command  of  Capt.  Wm.  McKay.  Before 
your  arrival,  there  was  a  pledge  that  it  should  be  mustered  into  the  reg 
ular  service  and  sent  to  my  assistance.  Major  Raines  informs  me  that  he 
did  every  thing  in  his  power  to  induce  yt)u  to  send  it  on.  Wm.  McKay 
informs  me  that  he  called  on  you  personally,  and  that  you  would  do  noth 
ing.  I  am  informed  that  your  aid-de-camp,  Lieut.  Arnold,  endeavored  to 
get  you  to  change  your  determination.  What  was  your  reply  ?  "  Gov. 
Stevens  can  take  care  of  himself.  Gov.  Stevens  will  go  down  the  Mis 
souri.  Gov.  Stevens  will  get  aid  from  Gen.  Harney.  If  Gov.  Stevens 
wants  aid  he  will  send  for  it."  These  were  your  answers  according  to  the 
changing  humor  of  the  moment. 

And  now,  sir,  in  view  of  your  assertion  that  you  disbanded  no  troops 
raised  for  my  relief,  and  that  my  communication  gave  you  the  first  intelli 
gence  that  any  were  raised  for  that  purpose,  I  would  commend  the  chalice 
to  your  own  lips,  "That  I  trust  you  will  be  governed"  hereafter  "by  the 
truth  and  the  truth  only." 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  Territory  Washington. 


[No.  66.] 

EXECUTIVE 

Olympia,  May  12th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,     ) 


Gen.  JOHN  E.  WOOL, 

Commanding  Pacific  Division  U.  S.  A.,  Benicia,  Cal. : 
SIR  : — I  have  received  a  letter  from  your  aid-de-camp,  Lieut.  Rich 
ard  Arnold,  of  the  4th  April,  returning  to  me  with  its  enclosures,  my 


151 

letter  to  you  of  the  20th  March,  and  stating  that  it  was  done  by  your 
direction. 

It  can  only  be  construed  as  evincing  a  determination  on  your  part  to 
have  no  further  official  communication  with  the  Executive  of  the  territory 
of  Washington,  at  the  very  time  when,  from  the  circumstances  of  the 
country,  and  the  nature  of  their  respective  duties,  there  should  and  must 
often  be  such  communications. 

It  is  a  matter  which  is  not  to  be  decided  by  personal  feeling,  but  of 
consideration  of  public  duty,  which  alone  should  govern  public  acts.'  I 
shall,  therefore,  continue  in  my  official  capacity  to  communicate  with  the 
Major  General  commanding  the  department  of  the  Pacific,  whenever,  in 
my  judgment,  duty  and  the  paramount  interests  of  the  territory  shall  de 
mand  such  communication  to  be  made,  casting  upon  that  officer  whatever 
responsibility  before  the  country  and  his  superiors,  may  attach  to  his  refu 
sal  to  receive  said  communications.  My  duty  shall  be  done.  Let  oth 
ers  do  their  duty. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  of  Washington  Territory. 


[No.  67.] 

EXEC 

OLYMPIA,  Nov.  26,  1855 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  W.  T,,         ) 

.) 


To  the  ORDNANCE  OFFICER  OR  QUARTERMASTER, 

San  Francisco,  Cal.  : 

SIR  :  —  I  have  received  advices  from  the  Col.  of  the  Ordnance  at 
Washington  City,  that  the  quota  of  arms  belonging  to  this  territory  had 
been  ordered  to  be  shipped  to  Olympia  to  the  care  of  the  Governor  of 
the  territory  of  Washington. 

The  steamer  "  California  "  arrived  at  Steilacoom  yesterday,  and  I 
learned  from  Capt.  Keyes,  U.  S.  A.,  that  these  arms  were  brought  up  by 
the  steamer,  but  for  some  unaccountable  reason  or  mistake  were  all  left 
at  Fort  Vancouver. 

The  difficulties  of  transportation  from  that  place  by  land  are  almost 
insuperable  and  very  expensive. 

Capt.  Keyes  having  informed  me  that  some  steamer  in  the  employ  of 


152 

the  U.  S.  would  immediately  return  from  San  Francisco  direct  to  Puget 
Sound,  under  the  circumstances,  I  have  to  request  that  she  be  directed  to 
stop  at  Vancouver  on  her  way  up,  and  transport  either  to  Steilacoom  or 
Olympia,  such  an  amount  of  these  arms  as  may  he  delivered  to  her  there 
by  the  proper  authorized  officer. 

I  am,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
{Signed,}  C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor,  W.  T. 


[No.  68.] 

EXECU' 

Olympia,  Dec.  12th,   1855. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASHINGTON,      ) 


Col.    J.    W.    RlPLEY, 

Chief  of  Ordnance,  Benicia  Arsenal,  Cal. : 

SIR  ; — On  the  evening  of  the  third  of  November  on  my  return  from 
the  Dalles,  information  was  received  by  me  of  a  most  serious  Indian  out 
break  on  the  White  river  prairies,  in  the  Puget  Sound  district  of  this  ter 
ritory,  which  has  assumed  a  very  alarming  aspect.  Knowing  well  the 
defenceless  state  of  the  settlements  and  the  absolute  destitution  of  arms 
and  ammunition,  I  at  once  made  a  requisition  upon  Theodore  J.  Eckerson, 
military  storekeeper  at  Columbia  barracks,  for  one  hundred  rifles  and  ac 
coutrements,  fifty  muskets,  and  a  supply  of  ammunition,  which  were 
promptly  furnished.  On  my  arrival  at  Olympia  I  learned  that  the  exi 
gency  had  been  so  great  that  the  Adjutant  General  of  the  territory  had 
dispatched  a  steamer  to  Yictoria,  on  Vancouver's  Island,  to  procure  arms 
and  ammunition  from  Gov.  Douglass. 

By  the  last  mail  from  Columbia  barracks,  I  received  a  letter  from 
Mr.  Eckerson,  informing  me  that  his  action  in  this  matter  had  been  dis 
approved  by  you,  and  that  I  must  immediately  replace  those  arms  out  of 
the  territorial  quota,  in  order  to  save  his  personal  responsibility.  This 
last  I  shall  be  enabled  to  do  as  soon  as  the  arms  arrive,  by  turning  over 
the  requisite  amount  to  the  commanding  officer  at  Fort  Steilacoom,  the 
impassability  of  the  roads  between  here  and  Columbia  barracks  rendering 
it  impossible  for  me  to  send  them  to  the  latter  place. 

I  cannot  but  look  upon  the  action  of  Mr.  Eckerson  as  not  only  jus 
tifiable,  but  worthy  of  the  highest  approval,  issuing,  as  he  did,  arms  upon 


153 

the  representations  and  requisition  of  the  Executive,  whose  office,  of  itself, 
would  seem  to  indicate  acquaintance  with  the  state  of  affairs,  especially 
at  a  time  when  assistance  had  to  be  called  for  from  a  foreign  power. 

When  the  territorial  arms  were  requested  to  be  shipped  to  Olympia, 
peace  and  quiet  reigned  about  us,  and  the  capital  of  the  territory  was  as 
sumed  to  be  the  proper  place  from  whence  they  should  be  distributed. 
Since  then  a  disastrous  change  has  taken  place,  and  the  distribution  of 
them  amongst  the  citizens  is  immediately  called  for.  As  I  have  above 
stated,  it  is  impossible  to  transport  freight  from  this  place  at  the  present 
season  of  the  year  to  the  Columbia  river. 

I  have,  therefore,  most  earnestly  to  request  that  I  may  be  allowed 
to  turn  over  to  the  commanding  officer  at  Fort  Steilacoom  an  amount 
sufficient  to  cover  those  furnished  me  by  Mr.  Eckerson,  and,  in  addition 
to  fnis,  that  Mr.  Eckersou  be  allowed  to  issue,  say  eight  hundred  muskets, 
(of  those  sent  by  mistake  to  Columbia  barracks)  to  George  Gibbs,  Brig 
adier  General  of  the  Washington  territory  militia,  now  at  Columbia  bar 
racks,  for  distribution  on  the  Columbia  river,  and  I  will  replace  them  in 
the  same  manner  at  Fort  Steilacoom.  I  cannot  too  strongly  assure  you 
that  the  exigencies  of  the  case  not  only  require  this,  but  that  the  danger 
is  daily  increasing. 

I  am,  sir,  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor,  W.  T. 


[No.  69.] 

SAN  FRANCISCO,  February  2,  1856. 

His  Excellency,  GOVERNOR  OF  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY, 

Olympia,  W.  T.: 

SIR: — I  have  your  favor  of  12th  December,  1855,  concerning  the 
issue  of  arms,  &c.,  to  Washington  territory,  by  military  storekeeper  T. 
J.  Eckerson,  and  requesting  that  a  further  issue  may  be  ordered  from  him 
for  the  territorial  troops  on  the  Columbia  river. 

With  reference   to  the  .transfer  of  arms  from  the  territory  to  Mr. 
Eckerson,  it  appears  to  me  best,  under  all   the  circumstances,  that  you 
should  retain  all  the  arms  which  have  been  issued  to  the  territory,  rend 
ering  receipts  to  Capt.  Stone  for  those  issued  by  him,  and  to  Mr.  Ecker- 
20 


154 

son  for  those  issued  by  him.  The  excess  over  the  present  quota  can  pro 
bably  be  charged  to  the  territory,  to  be  deducted  from  future  assignments, 
and  I  will  recommend  that  this  be  approved  by  the  chief  of  ordnance. 

With  reference  to  your  request  that  a  further  supply  be  ordered  at 
Fort  Steilacooni,  I  would  state  that  the  arrival  of  the  9th  regiment,  U. 
S.  infantry  on  the  Columbia  river  would  seem  to  render  unnecessary  any 
further  arming  of  the  militia  of  that  section  ;  and  the  emergency  does 
not  seem  to  me  sufficient  to  justify  my  departing  from  law  and  regulations 
in  the  matter. 

Should  emergencies  arise,  the  commanding  officers  in  the  field  have 
full  authority  to  order  the  issue  of  arms  to  militia. 
Very  respectfully,  I  am 

Your  Excellency's  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  JAS.  W.  RIPLEY, 

Lieut.  Col.  Ord. 


[No.  70.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  W.  T.,      ) 
May  4th,  1856.  ) 

COL.  RIPLEY,  U.  S.  A., 

Chief  of  Ordnaifce  Department,  Pacific  Coast  : 

SIR — I  have  the  honor  to  hereby  request  that  two  thousand  pounds 
of  rifle  powder  be  furnished  from  the  government  stores  of  ammunition 
for  the  use  of  the  inhabitants  of  Washington  territory,  to  be  distributed 
to  such  citizens  as  are  now  bearing  arms  against  the  hostile  tribes  inhab 
iting  the  territory,  and  with  whom  the  United  States  is  at  war. 

The  reasons  which  are  proper  to  state  in  support  of  this  requisition 
are  : 

1st.  The  two  thousand  muskets  and  rifles  already  provided  by  the 
TJ.  S.  Government,  and  now  in  the  hands  of  the  militia  of  W.  T.,  were 
not  accompanied  with  any  ammunition  except  percussion  caps. 

2d.  The  fact  is  clear  to  all  men  here  that  the  two  thousand  hostile 
Indians  now  in  arms  are  unsubdued,  and  are  capable  of  maintaining  a  war 
for  many  months  more. 

3d.  The  six  thousand  Indians  now  upon  reservations,  or  not  openly 
at  war,  can  only  be  kept  from  joining  by  fear,  or  a  full  knowledge  of 
ample  preparations  on  the  part  of  the  white  settlers. 


155 

4th.  The  impoverished  state  of  the  inhabitants  of  Washington 
territory,  now  nearly  exhausted  by  keeping  on  foot,  and  supplying  with 
every  thing  needed  in  a  campaign,  one  thousand  men  in  the  field,  or  occu 
pying  block  houses  for  six  months  past,  renders  it  almost  impossible  to 
procure  ammunition  from  any  sources  of  private  credit. 

This  requisition  will  be  handed  you  by  Lt.  Col.  Crosbie,  aid,  who  is 
authorized  to  receive  and  receipt  for  such  ordnance  stores  as  you  may 
furnish. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,;  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  W.  T. 


[No.  71.] 

BENICIA,  CAL.,  May  29,  1855. 

His  Excellency,  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  Washington  Territory,  Olympia  : 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  letter  of 
the  4th  instant,  requesting  "  that  two  thousand  pounds  of  rifle  powder  be 
furnished  from  the  government  stores  of  ammunition  for  the  use  of  the 
inhabitants  of  Washington  territory,"  and  in  reply  have  to  say  that  I 
am  not  authorized  to  make  the  issue  without  authority  from  the  com 
manding  General  of  the  Pacific  department. 

Yery  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  JAS.  W.  KIPLEY, 

Lieut.  Col.  Ord. 


[No.  72.] 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  FORT 

May  19,  1856 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  FORT  VANCOUVER,  W.  T.     ) 

5.          | 


To  His  Excellency,  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  of  Washington  : 

SIR  :— I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  commu- 


156 

nication  of  the  18th  instant,  requesting  me  to  approve  your  requisitions  on 
the  military  storekeeper  at  this  post  for  howitzers,  rifles,  ammunition,  &c. 
In  reply,  I  have  -to  say  that  it  will  be  impossible  for  me  to  grant  the 
authority  desired.  My  instructions  from  the  Major  General  commanding 
the  department  on  the  subject  of  issuing  arms,  &c.,  to  troops  not  in  the 
service  of  the  United  States,  are  positive,  and  I  cannot  depart  from 
them.  *  *  *  *  *  * . 

In  case  of  any  descent  upon  this  portion  of  the  territory,  my  com 
mand  will  do  all  in  its  power  for  the  safety  and  protection  of  the  citizens 
and  property,  and  will  co-operate  with  the  troops  of  the  territory  as  far 
as  practicable. 

My  command  consists  of  one  company,  and  a  few  recruits.  A  com 
pany  of  the  9th  infantry  left  here  on  Thursday  last  to  join.the  command 
of  Colonel  Wright. 

I  am,  sir,  with  much  respect, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  T.  MORRIS, 

Lt.  Col.  4th  Infantry,  Com.  Post. 

P.  S. — It  may  be  proper  to  state  that  there  are  no  mountain  how 
itzers  here  for  the  use  of  the  post,  all  having  been  forwarded  some  time 
since,  to  Fort  Dalles,  and  I  am  informed  by  the  ordnance  officer  that 
there  are  but  rifles  enough  for  the  troops  in  the  district. 


[No.  73.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,          ) 

Olympia,  Sept.  22,  1855.  j 

* 

MAJOR  Gr.  J.  RAINES, 

-Columbia  Barracks,  W.  T: 

SIR  : — I  am  informed  by  Col.  J.  P.  Anderson,  who  has  just  returned 
from  the  Colville  mines,  that  some  outrages  have  been  committed  by  the 
Yakima  Indians  upon  the  miners  passing  through  their  country.  One 
man  named  Mattice,  a  resident  of  this  place,  is  known  by  positive  Indian 
testimony  to  have  been  murdered  by  four  Indians  of  the  band  called 
"  Isle  de  Pierrie. "  Seven  other  individuals,  who  crossed  the  Nachess 
Pass,  are  reported  by  the  Indians  also  to  have  been  killed.  These  mur- 


157 

ders  have  taken  place  upon  straggling  parties  of  one,  two,  or  three,  and 
by  the  Yakima  tribe  and  its  branches.  A  son  of  Owhi,  one  of  the  prin 
cipal  chiefs  of  that  tribe,  is  implicated  in  them. 

In  addition  to  this,  some  twenty  or  thirty  persons  are  known  to  have 
left  this  vicinity,  in  parties  of  from  two  to  three,  by  the  same  route,  and 
who  are  in  danger  of  sharing  the  same  fate.  Under  these  circumstances 
I  would  suggest  that  a  detachment  of  soldiers,  sufficiently  strong,  should 
be  despatched  at  once  through  the  Yakima  country  as  far  as  where  the 
trail  across  the  Nachess  leaves  for  Colville,  the  object  of  which  would  be 
to  discover  the  perpetrators  of  the  murder  of  Mattice,  to  ascertain  if  the 
other  murders  had  been  committed,  and  to  punish  the  guilty  parties,  and 
lastly,  to  furnish  protection  to  the  remaining  portion  of  our  citizens  who 
are  returning  home.  These  reports  may  turn  out  to  be  without  founda 
tion.  You,  however,  being  on  the  more  travelled  route,  will  have  earlier 
information  than  we  can  have  here. 

Gov.  Stevens  is  expected  to  be  in  the  Spokane  country  during  the 
present  month,  and  a  detachment  of  soldiers  may  be  of  assistance  to  him 
in  furthering  the  public  service  he  is  at  present  engaged  in. 

I  deem  it  my  duty  to  call  your  attention  to  the  facts  as  reported  by 
me. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  ob't.  servant, 
(SignedJ  C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor  W.  T. 


[No.  74.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,      ) 
Olympia,  Sept.  26th,  1855.  ) 

Major  G.  J.  RAINES,  U.  S.  A., 

Fort  Vancouver,  W.  T. : 

SIR  -.—Since  my  communication  of  22d  inst.,  I  have  received  addi 
tional  information  of  outrages  committed  by  the  Yakima  Indians. 

On  the  14th  September,  two  men,  named  Walker  and  Jameson, 
from  Seattle,  were  shot  dead  from  an  ambush  near  the  point  where  the 
Nachess  trail  crosses  the  Yakima,  some  thirty  miles  above  the  Altanam 
Mission.  In  addition  to  this,  from  all  previous  circumstances,  there  is 
strong  probability  of  nine  others  having  met  a  similar  fate  by  the  same 
hands. 


158 

This  tribe  and  its  kindred  branches  having  entered  into  treaty  stipu 
lations  with  the  United  States  to  preserve  amity  with  all  American  citi 
zens,  and  in  defiance  of  such  obligations,  having  taken  the  first  opportu 
nity  to  cut  off  straggling  parties,  I  immediately,  upon  the  receipt  of  the 
last  information,  made  a  requisition  upon  Capt.  M.  Maloney,  commanding 
Fort  Steilacoom,  for  a  detachment  of  the  troops  under  his  command,  to 
proceed  as  soon  as  possible  to  the  point  in  question,  both  to  punish  the 
Yakima  tribe,  and  to  furnish  protection  to  such  persons  as  may  be  travel 
ling  through  that  country.  This  requisition  has  been  complied  with,  and 
on  Thursday,  (Sept.  27,)  a  detachment  of  forty  men,  with  forty  days' 
provisions,  will  start,  under  command  of  Lieut.  W.  A.  Slaughter.  In 
order  more  fully  to  carry  out  the  objects  intended,  and  to  effect  perma 
nent  results,  I  have  to  request  that  the  suggestion  in  my  letter  of  Sep 
tember  22d  be  carried  out,  and  that  a  detachment  of  troops  be  sent  either 
from  Yancouver  or  the  Dalles,  as  soon  as  possible,  to  co-operate  with 
those  sent  from  Steilacoom. 
I  am,  very  truly, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

C.  H.  MASON, 
Acting  Governor,  W.  T. 


LNo.  75.] 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  COLUMBIA  RIVER  AND  PUGET  SOUND  DP'T.,      ) 
Fort  Vancouver,  Sept.  26th,  1855. 

C.  H.  MASON,  ESQ., 

Acting  Governor  Washington  Territory  : 

'  SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  your  letter  of  the  22d  inst., 
and  in  reply,  beg  leave  to  state  that,  antecedently,  I  had  obtained  Col. 
J.  P.  Anderson's  information  from  another  source,  and  forthwith  for 
warded  an  order  to  Lieut.  Day,  of  the  artillery,  (supposed  to  be  at  Mc 
Kay's,  on  the  Umatilla  river,  with  forty-four  mounted  men)  to  enquire 
into  the  facts,  with  remarks — "  It  is  thought  that  at  Walla  Walla,  or 
Brooks  &  Bumford's  place,  there  will  be  more  facilities  for  information;  if 
so,  proceed  there,  and  further  if  necessary,  as  the  move  in  that  direction 
for  this  purpose  will  have  a  good  effect." 

The  only  real  chiefs  among  the  Indians  whose  influence  is  to  be 


159 

dreaded,  in  that  region,  are  Peu-peu-mox-mox  of  the  Walla  Wallas,  and 
Kam-i-akin  of  the  Yakimas,  who  can  be  communicated  with  at  the  first 
named  place. 

This  order  was  sent  to  the  commanding  officer  at  Fort  Dalles  to 
forward  as  soon  as  practicable,  and  we  look  for  further  information  from 
Mr.  Borland,  understood  to  be  en  route  among  the  Indians  for  this  place. 
I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

G.  J.  RAINES, 
Major  4th  Infantry,  Commanding. 


[No.  76.] 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  COLUMBIA  RIVER  AND  PUGET  SOUND 

Fort  Vancouver,  W.  T.,  Sept.  29th,  1855.  J 

His  Excellency,  C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor  W.  T. : 

GOVERNOR  : — Your  letter  by  Mr.  Pearson  I  have  the  honor  to  ac 
knowledge,  and  have  ordered  into  the  field  a  company  of  eighty-four 
men  from  Fort  Dalles,  0.  T.,  all  mounted,  and  with  provisions  on  pack 
mules  for  one  month,  to  proceed  without  delay  and  sweep  through  the 
Yakima  country  to  the  points  you  indicated,  co-operating  with  the  force 
from  Steilacoom ;  also,  to  inquire  into  the  safety  of  Agent  Bolon,  who 
has  now  been  absent  an  unusual  length  of  time  ;  a  respectful  attention  to 
whose  views  is  enjoined — if  alive — for  there  are  grounds  to  fear  other 
wise. 

I  shall  approve  of  the  action  of  the  commanding  officer  at  Fort 
Steilacoom  in  the  premises,  and  only  regret  that  the  forty  men  under  Lt. 
Slaughter,  were  not  a  full  company.  I  have  also  located  an  officer  and 
twenty  men  at  the  Cascades. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

G.  J.  RAINES, 
Major  4th  Infantry  commanding. 


160 

HEAD  QUARTERS  COLUMBIA  RIVER  AND  PUGET  SOUND  DIST.,    ) 
Fort  Vancouver,  October  9th',  1855.  ) 

/ 
Hon.  CHAS.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor  of  W.  T. : 

SIR: — Information  has  been  received  this  day.  from  Major  G.  0. 
Haller,  who  was  ordered  out  into  the  Yakiina  country.  He  states  that 
he  met  the  enemy  about  3  P.  M.,  on  the  6th  inst,  and  fought  them  at 
skirmishing  for  some  time.  Finally  charging  them,  he  drove  them  out  of 
the  brush.  From  the  nature  of  the  country  he  was  obliged  to  take  pos 
session  of  the  heights  surrounding  the  Pisco  river  for  the  night.  He  was 
surrounded,  and  in  that  position,  has  called  for  a  re-inforcement.  All 
the  disposable  force  in  the  district  will  at  once  take  the  field,  and  I  have 
the  honor  to  make  a  requisition  upon  you  for  two  companies  of  volun 
teers,  to  take  the  field  at  the  earliest  poss  ible  moment. 

The  composition  of  these  companies  to  be  as  follows  :  One  captain, 
one  first  lieutenant,  and  one  second  lieutenant,  two  musicians,  four  ser 
geants,  four  corporals,  and  seventy-four  privates. 

The  greatest  exertions  should  be  made  to  raise  and  equip  these  com 
panies  at  once. 

Orders  have  been  sent  to  Capt.  Maloney  to  take  the  field  with  all  his 
disposable  force,  and  it  is  expected  that  the  regulars  and  volunteers  will 
act  in  concert. 

As  soon  as  the  first  company  is  raised  the  command  of  regulars  and 
volunteers  should  take  the  field  with  out  waiting  for  the  other  company. 

This  latter  company  can  start  out  as  soon  as  raised  and  equipped. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

G.  J.  RAINES, 
Major  4th  Infantry  commanding. 


[No.  78.] 

EXECU'] 

Olympia,  Oct.  14th,   1855. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASHINGTON,      ) 


Maj.  G.  J.  RAINES, 

Fort  Vancouver : 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  favor  of 
Oct.  9th,  and  to  state  in  reply,  that  agreeably  to  the  request  therein  con 
tained,  I  have  called  upon  the  people  of  the  territory  for  two  companies 

•  '•' 


161 

of  volunteers,  one  to  report  to  the  commanding  officer  at  Vancouver  and 
the  other  to  the  executive  at  this  place.  This  last  will,  as  soon  as  organ 
ized,  be  ordered  to  report  to  Capt.  Maloney,  at  Fort  Steilacooni,  and 
proceed  into  the  field  as  soon  as  possible. 

I  am,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting:  Governor,  W.  T. 


[No.  19.] 

EXECUTIVE 

October  14th,  1855 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  W.  T., ) 

5.          J 


Major  G.  J.  RAINES, 

Fort  Vancouver,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — I  have  sent  the  bearer  of  this  letter,  R.  M.  Walker,  Esq., 
executive  clerk,  to  learn  from  you  how  far  the  volunteer  company  ordered 
to  organize  at  Fort  Vancouver  can  depend  upon  the  post  under  your  com 
mand  for  arms,  ammunition,  &c. 

The  scarcity  of  these  munitions  of  war  upon  the  S,ound  rendered 
it  necessary  for  me  to  make  a  requisition  both  upon  the  U.  S.  Revenue 
Cutter  "Jefferson  Davis, "  the  result  of  which  I  have  not  as  yet  ascer 
tained. 

I  sincerely  trust  that  it  will  be  in  your  power  to  furnish  the  necessary 
arms  and  accoutrements  for  the  company  directed  to  organize  at  Van 
couver.  Transportation  and  subsistence  will,  I  suppose  as  a  matter  of 
course,  be  furnished  them  by  the  TJ.  S.  Quartermaster  and  Commissary. 
Any  papers  necessary  to  be  receipted  by  me  will  be  acted  upon  immedi 
ately  upon  presentation. 

I  am  sir,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor,  W.  T. 
21 


162 

[No.  80.] 

HEAD  QUARTEI 

October   nth,  1855. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  FORT  VANCOUVER,  W.  T.,    ) 


Acting  Governor  C.  H.  MASON, 

Olympia,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  two* 
communications  of  the  14th  inst. 

So  soon  as  the  company  of  volunteers  from  this  county  is  organized 
and  mustered  into  the  service,  it  will  be  armed  and  equipped  and  furnished 
with  subsistence  and  transportation. 

If  I  am  correctly  informed,  a  company  will  soon  be  organized,  the 
members  of  which  will  be  mostly  men  who  are  residing  on  claims  within 
twenty  miles  of  this  post,  and  who,  from  their  knowledge  of  the  country, 
will  be  of  very  great  assistance  in  thoroughly  chastising  the  hostile  Click- 
atats  and  Yakimas. 

I  am,  Governor,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

JNO.  WITHERS, 
First  Lieut.  4th  Infantry,  commanding  post. 


[No.  81.] 

FORT  VANCOUVER,  W.  T.  Nov.  3d,  1855. 

Lieut.  JOHN  WITHERS,  U.  S.  A., 

Commanding  Fort  Vancouver  : 

SIR  : — I  have  instructed  B.  F.  Shaw,  Esq.,  to  raise  a  company  of 
rangers  to  proceed  on  the  trail  towards  the  Rocky  mountains,  and  if 
possible,  to  bring  in  Governor  Stevens  in  safety.  Mr.  Shaw  has  depu 
ted  Mr.  Wm.  McKay  for  the  purpose. 

In  case  the  company  should  be  organized,  and  mustered  into  the  ser 
vice  of  the  United  States,  I  have  to  request  that  you  will  furnish  them 
with  all  the  necessary  arms,  ammunition,  subsistence,  transportation,  &c., 
and  despatch  them  as  soon  as  possible  on  the  route  above  indicated. 

Mr.  Shaw  is  expected  to  have  the  direction  of  the  company,  either 
as  a  captain,  or  as  special  Indian  agent. 
Very  respectfully,  yours, 

CHAS.  H.  MASON, 
Acting  Governor  W.  T. 


163 

[No.  82.] 

Camp  No.  11,  Monday,  Nov.  12,  1855. 


ROMAN  CATHOLIC  MISSION,  YAKIMA,      ) 


Acting  Governor  C.  H.  MASON, 

Olympia,  W.  T.  : 

GOVERNOR  : — Here  we  are  without  a  battle,  except  a  skirmish  four 
days  since,  with  some  forty  Indians,  who  defied  us  as  we  approached  the 
Yakima  river.  We  thought  at  first  it  was  the  prelude  to  the  big  battle 
with  the  whole  of  their  force,  and  forded  the  stream  to  an  island  with 
our  mounted  troops,  eighteen  dragoons  and  eight  pioneers.  Here  we 
commenced  the  action,  firing  on  the  enemy,  and  ordered  up  our  artillery 
and  infantry  to  ford  the  stream.  Our  troops  made  a  rush  into  the  water, 
biit  being  on  foot,  tried  again  and  again  to  cross  the  river  but  failed,  the 
rapid  current  sweeping  away  two  of  our  best  men,  who  were  thus 
drowned  ;  whereupon,  I  sent  back  to  Col.  Nesmith  for  two  companies  of 
volunteers,  which,  with  our  dragoons,  drove  headlong  into  the  foaming 
torrent,  and  reaching  the  opposite  shore,  charged  the  enemy,  who  fled 
away  over  the  hills,  one  of  their  balls  striking,  but  fortunately  not  wound 
ing,  Col.  Nesmith's  horse. 

Late  in  the  afternoon,  after  recalling  all  our  force  to  the  south  bank 
of  the  Yakirna  river,  we  heard,  some  distance  on  the  plain,  the  reports 
of  small  arms,  (indication  of  a  fight,)  and  taking  two  companies,  we  pro 
ceeded  in  that  direction  until  some  tune  after  night,  when  the  firmg  ceas 
ing,  we  returned  back  to  the  edge  of  the  timber,  and  bivouacked  for  the 
night.  Next  day  we  found  a  number  of  Indians  around  us  on  swift  hor 
ses,  which  were  driven  off  by  our  mounted  volunteer  companies,  and  as 
we  approached  the  mountain  gorge,  found  the  Indians  about  three  hun 
dred  in  number  on  the  hill  tops  beating  their  drums  and  shouting  defi 
ance.  These  were  soon  driven  from  their  position  and  scattered  by  dis 
charges  from  our  howitzers.  We  cut  off  some  of  them  by  a  proper  dis 
position  of  our  troops,  and  two  or  more  were  killed. 

We  continued  our  march  to  this  place,  sweeping  the  plains  with  our 
cavalry,  dispersing,  killing  and  wounding  all  the  enemy  we  saw,  and 
found  the  mission  abandoned,  apparently  precipitately. 

Capt.  Maloney  not  having  arrived  in  conjunction  with  Col.  Nesmith 
(who  went  himseif  in  command)  we  despatched  one  hundred  and  sixty- 
eight  volunteers  aad  regulars,  on  our  best  horses,  to  proceed  in  the  direc 
tion  of  the  Nachess  pass,  and  ascertain  his  whereabouts.  We  are  await 
ing  their  report,  for  we  cannot  tell  where  the  large  body  of-  the  enemy  is, 
nnless  gone  that  way  to  attack  Capt.  Maloney  ?s  command. 


164 

Our  force  has  alarmed  the  enemy  so  much  that  they  may  be  scat 
tered. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

G.  J.  RAINES, 
Major  U.  S.  Army,  and  Brig.  Gen.  W.  T.  Y. 


[No.  83.] 

EXECUTIVE  C 

Olympia,  April  2d,  1856. 

Col.  GEO.  WRIGHT, 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,      ) 


Commanding  9th  Infantry  : 

SIR  : — I  have  respectfully  to  suggest  the  propriety  of  a  thorough 
understanding  between  the  regular  and  volunteer  service,  so  their  joint 
efforts  may  be  applied  to  the  protection  of  the  settlements  and  the  prose 
cution  of  the  war. 

The  recent  attack  on  the  Cascades  must  convince  all  persons  that 
this  is  119  time  for  forms,  but  for  vigorous,  energetic  and  united  action. 

We  have  the  worst  country  in  the  world  for  summer  operations. 
The  Indians,  basing  their  operations  on  the  mountain  region  about  Reg- 
nier,  St.  Helens  and  Adams,  a  region  affording  inexhaustible  quantities 
of  food,  numerous  and  inaccessible  retreats,  can  defy  the  utmost  energies 
of  a  vastly  superior  force  to  do  ought  else  than  protect  the  settlements. 

We  are  now  rapidly  approaching  that  condition  of  things,  and  it 
becomes  a  paramount  duty  to  prepare  for  it. 

Not  only  in  my  judgment  is  the  present  force  in  the  field,  both  reg 
ulars  and  volunteers,  inadequate,  but  it  should  be  strengthened,  and  that 
rapidly,  or  the  force  of  Oregon  Volunteers  will  be  left  to  contend  single 
handed  against  a  vastly  superior  force. 

I  am  now  raising  an  additional  company  in  Lewis  county  for  the 
protection  of  the  people,  and  to  watch  the  passes  in  that  quarter.  A 
company  has  already  been  raised  in  Clarke  county  which  will,  if  practic 
able,  be  mounted. 

The  effect,  in  that  settled  portion  of  the  territory  ought  to  be  to 
keep  the  farmers  on  their  claims.  In  Clarke  county,  I  learn  the  inhabit 
ants  have  gone  to  Vancouver  and  St.  Helens. 


165 

There  should  be  blockhouses  on  the  Washoogle  settlement  and  on 
Lewis  river. 

I  therefore  propose  to  apply  the  company  raised  in  Clarke  county  in 
ranging  duty,  and  every  effort  will  be  made  to  induce  the  settlers  to  re 
turn  to  their  farms  and  secure  themselves  by  blockhouses. 

I  am  most  anxious  so  to  arrange  my  operations  that  no  force  need 
be  thrown  away,  and  I  will  ask  you  to  communicate  with  me  and  make 
such  suggestions  as  may  seem  to  you  appropriate. 
I  am  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Yout  most  obedient  servant, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  W.  T. 


[No.  84.] 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  NORTHERN  DIST.,  DEP.  OF  THE  PACIFIC,   ) 
Fort  Vancouver,  W.  T.,  April  10th,  1856.          ) 

GOVERNOR  I,  I.  STEVENS, 

Olympia,  W.  T.: 

GOVERNOR  : — I  have  this  moment  received  your  communication  of 
the  2d  inst.,  and  in  reply,  have  to  say,  that  I  am  now  using  all  the  force 
at  my  disposal  for  the  protection  of  the  settlements,  and  hi  restoring  con 
fidence  to  the  farmers  east,  west,  and  north  of  us.  In  the  first  place,  I 
am  erecting  block  houses  at  either  extremity  of  the  Cascades  portage  ; 
they  will  be  completed  in  a  few  days.  I  have  also  organized  a  detach 
ment  of  mounted  infantry  under  an  enterprising  officer,  to  range  over  the 
whole  country  and  afford  protection  to  the  farmers.  The  panic  is  subsi 
ding  :  the  people  are  now  beginning  to  return  to  their  vocations,  all  they 
require  is  union  among  themselves,  and  the  knowledge  of  the  fact  that 
scouting  parties  are  constantly  moving  over  the  country. 

The  temporary  success  the  enemy  met  with  at  the  Cascades,  has  not 
given  him  confidence  ;  my  sudden  return  and  total  dispersion  of  all  the 
Indians  at  that  point,  with  the  loss  of  twelve  or  fifteen  of  their  warriors, 
with  all  of  their  baggage  and  animals,  will  have  convinced  them  that 
they  are  safe  only  in  their  mountain  retreats.  The  unfortunate  affair  at 
the  Cascades,  it  is  hoped,  may  rouse  our  people  to  the  necessity  of  having 
their  arms  always  with  them  ;  had  such  been  the  case,  many  valuable 
lives  might  have  been  spared. 


166 

We  must  keep  an  eye  on  the  friendly  Indians.  I  am  well  satisfied 
that  they  knew  full  well  at  the  Cascades  that  an  attack  was  to  be  made, 
and  that  many  of  them  joined  the  hostile  party.  However,  I  have  given 
them  a  lesson  which  they  will  long  remember.  Ten  of  those  Indians, 
including  their  chief,  have  been  hung  by  sentence  of  a  military  commis 
sion.  The  residue,  some  forty  men,  and  seventy  or  eighty  women  and 
children  have  been  placed  on  an  island  without  any  means  of  leaving  it, 
and  under  the  observation  of  troops.  As  soon  as  our  lines  of  communi 
cation  are  well  secured,  and  quiet  and  confidence  established  in  the  set 
tlements,  I  shall  be  prepared  to  advance  into  the  country  of  the  Yakimas. 

A  strong  post  must  be  established  in  the  heart  of  that  country.  It 
will  not  do  to  march  through  an  Indian  country  simply  ;  we  should  make 
them  understand  that  we  are  going  to  make  a  permanent  settlement  with 
them.  Break  up  their  fisheries,  and  harrass  them  constantly,  in  order 
that  they  shall  have  no  time  for  laying  in  a  supply  of  food.  By  this 
course,  I  think  they  may  be  brought  to  terms,  perhaps  not  until  next 
winter  ;  it  is  only  a  question  of  time,  it  must  be  accomplished  in  the  end. 

I  return  immediately  to  the  Cascades. 

With  great  respect,  I  have  the  honor  to  be, 
Your  obedient  servant, 

G.  WRIGHT, 
Col.  9th  Infantry,  commanding. 


[  EXTRACT.  ] 
[No.  85.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  W.  T.,  | 

OLYMPIA,  April  24th,  1856.      J 

Col.  GEO.  WRIGHT, 

Commanding  Columbia  River  District : 

SIR  : *  *  *  *  *  *  •       * 

My  object  in  addressing  you  is  to  ascertain  whether  it  is  a  point  of 
your  plan  of  campaign  soon  to  occupy  the  Walla  Walla  country.  Should 
the  Oregon  volunteers  be  disbanded,  and  the  Walla  Walla  not  be  occu 
pied,  my  train  will  require  a  considerable  escort. 

In  this  event,  will  you  furnish  me  with  an  escort  of  one  jcompany  on 
my  requisition  ? 

Yery  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEYENS, 

Governor  Territory  Washington. 


167 

[No.  86.] 

[EAI 

Camp  at  Ft.  Dalles,  0.  T.,   April  27,  1856. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  NORTHERN  DIST.  DEP^T.  OF  THE  PACIFIC,    ) 


Gov.  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Olympia,  W.  T.: 

GOVERNOR  : — Your  communication  of  the  24th  instant  has  this  mo 
ment  reached  me  ;  and  in  reply,  I  have  to  say,  that  it  forms  no  part  of 
my  present  plan  of  campaign  to  occupy  the  Walla  Walla  country.  I 
cross  the  Columbia  river  to-morrow  morning  with  five  companies,  and 
march  into  the  heart  of  the  Yakima  country,  with  the  hope  of  termina 
ting  the  war  in  that  quarter  at  an  early  date. 

The  expedition  to  the  Walla  Walla  has  been  deferred  for  the  pres 
ent,  as  we  are  assured  that  the  Indians  in  that  district,  and  on  the  Snake 
river  are  peaceably  inclined.  It  has  been  deemed  advisabled  to  operate 
with  a  strong  force  in  the  Yakima  country. 

Your  communication  has  been  forwarded  to  the  Major  General  com 
manding  the  department,  for  his  action  in  the  matter. 
With  great  respect,  I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 

G.  WRIGHT, 
Col.  9th  Infantry  commanding. 


[No.  87.] 

EXECUTIVE 

May  8th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA, 


COL.  G.  WRIGHT, 

Commanding  Northern  District : 

SIR  : — Your  favor  of  the  27th  instant  reached  me  last  evening. 
My  object  in  writing  is  to  state,  that  my  information  in  regard  to  the  In 
dians  in  the  Walla  Walla  and  on  the  Snake  river  is  that  they  are  deter 
mined  to  prosecute  the  war. 

This  was  the  declaration  made  by  the  prominent  chiefs  of  the  Cay- 
uses  to  the  express  of  Mr.  McDonald  some  weeks  since.  This  is  the 
opinion  of  my  agent  in  the  Nez  Perces  country,  and  of  the  Nez  Perces 
chiefs,  and  it  would  seem  to  be  indicated  by  the  recent  attack  by  the  ID. 
dians  on  the  volunteers  at  the  Umatilla. 


168 

I  have  therefore  thought  it  my  duty  to  communicate  these  views, 
and  I  will  suggest  that  you  receive  with  great  caution  any  information  of 
their  peaceable  intentions,  to  the  end  that  you  may  not  be  thrown  off 
your  guard. 

Yery  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
<Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  of  Washington  Territory. 


[No.  88.1 

[  EXTRACT,  ] 

DALLES,  0.  T.  June  18th,  1856. 

Col.  G.  WRIGHT, 

Com.  Northern  District,  Camp  on  Nachess,  W.  T. : 
giR . ******* 

Lieut.  Col.  Shaw,  on  Thursday  last,  (June  12th)  marched  from 
camp  Montgomery  over  the  Nachess.  It  is  supposed  he  will  camp  on. 
the  Wenass  to-night.  His  orders  are  to  co-operate  with  you  in  removing 
the  seat  of  war  from  the  base  of  the  mountains  to  the  interior,  and  for 
reasons  affecting  the  close  of  the  war  on  the  Sound  obvious  to  all  persons. 

He  will  then  push  to  the  Walla  Walla  valley,  crossing  the  Colum 
bia  at  Fort  Walla  Walla. 

The  supplies  and  escort  for  the  Walla  Walla  will  move  from  the 
Dalles  on  Friday  morning. 

The  Walla  Walla  valley  must  be  occupied  immediately  to  prevent 
the  extension  of  the  war  into  the  interior. 

Kam-i-akin  has,  since  your  arrival  on  the  Nachess,  made  every  exer 
tion  to  induce  the  tribes  thus  far  friendly  to  join  in  the  war.  He  has 
flattered  the  Spokanes,  where  he  was  on  the  25th  of  May,  and  has  en 
deavored  to  browbeat  the  Nez  Perces.  The  Spokanes  have  answered  in 
the  negative,  and  the  Nez  Perces  will,  I  am  satisfied,  continue  friendly. 

I  am  ready,  as  the  superintendent  of  Indian  affairs,  to  take  charge 
of  any  Indians  that  may  be  reported  by  yourself  as  having  changed  their 
condition  from  hostility  to  peace. 

And  in  this  connection,  I  will  remark,  that  I  have  been  informed  of 
your  views  in  reference  to  the  Oregon  superintendent  taking  charge  of 
certain  Indians  of  my  jurisdiction,  those  at  Vancouver  and  those  recently 


169 

sent  in  by  you.  I  aru  ready  to  agree  to  any  arrangement  which  may  be 
for  the  good  of  the  Indians.  *  *  * 

From  all  I  can  gather,  I  presume  your  views  and  my  own  do  not 
differ  as  to  the  terms  which  should  be  allowed  the  Indians,  viz  :  uncon 
ditional  submission,  and  the  rendering  up  of  murderers  and  instigators  of 
the  war  to  punishment. 

I  will,  however,  respectfully  put  you  on  your  guard  in  reference  to 
Leschi,  Nelson,  Kitsap  and  Qui-e-muth  from  the  Sound,  and  to  suggest 
that  no  arrangement  be  made  which  shall  save  their  necks  from  the  excu- 
tioner.  ******* 

I  am  sir,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(SignedJ  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  W.  T. 


[No.  89.] 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON, 
Olympia,  Aug.  3d,  1856. 


Col.  G.  WRIGHT, 

9th  Inf.  Com.  Northern  District  Yakima  country  : 

SIR  : — The  volunteer  force  under  the  command  of  Lt.  Col.  B.  F.  Shaw, 
has  struck  the  hostile  Indians  a  severe  blow  in  the  Grande  Ronde,  where 
they  had  collected  to  the  number  of  some  four  hundred  warriors.  The 
Indians  were  completely  routed,  and  engaged  in  a  running  fight  for 
sixteen  miles,  in  which  forty  of  them  were  killed.  Three  hundred  of  their 
horses,  one  hundred  and  fifty  packs  of  provisions,  and  a  considerable 
quantity  of  ammunition  were  also  captured.  The  battle  took  place  on 
the  11th  July.  On  the  15th  and  16th  Major  Layton  and  Capt.  Goff, 
with  their  commands,  defeated  another  portion  of  the  hostile  Indians  on 
the  head  waters  of  Burnt  river. 

By  late  advices  I  learn  that  a  large  majority  of  the  Nez  Perces  are 
very  restless  and  disposed  to  assume  a  hostile  attitude.  I  do  not,  how 
ever,  think  they  will  immediately  break  out  into  open  hostility  to  the 
whites,  but  prompt  measures  are  necessary  to  prevent  it. 

I  will,  in  a  few  days,  go  in  person  to  the  interior,  and  much  desire 
that  you  should  go  with  me.  I  will  suggest  that  you  at  once  send  a  force 
22 


170 

including  all  your  mounted  men,  say  three  companies,  to  occupy  the  Walla 
Walla  valley. 

My  object  in  visiting  the  interior  is  a  general  pacification  of  the  In 
dian  tribes.  I  am  advised  that  the  Spokanes  are  friendly. 

I  will  be  at  the  Dalles  Thursday,  August  14th,  and  am  desirous,  at 
all  events,  to  meet  you  at  that  point  to  confer  with  you  in  reference  to> 
the  Yakimas  ;  and  I  again  express  the  hope  that  you  will  go  to  Walla 
Walla. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,;  ISAAC  L  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Sup.  Indian  Affairs,  W.  T. 


[No.  90J 

HEAD 

Fort  Dalles,  O.  T.,  October  4th,  1856. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  COLOMBIA  RIVER  DISTRICT, 


Gov.  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Sup.  Indian  Affairs,  W.  T. : 

GOVERNOR  : — I  had  the  honor  to  receive  sometime  since,  your  com- 
inunication  of  the  19th  August,  making  a  requisition  on  me  for  the  de 
livery  of  Leschi,  Nelson,  Qui-e-muth,  Kitsap  and  Stehi,  with  the  view  of 
their  being  sent  to  the  Sound,  to  be  tried  by  the  civil  authority. 

I  delayed  action  on  the  subject,  expecting  your  speedy  return  from 
Walla  Walla,  when  I  was  anxious  to  have  a  personal  interview  with  you. 

You  know  the  circumstances  under  which  the  Indians  referred  to- 
were  permitted  to  come  in  and  remain  with  the  friendly  Yakimas.  Al 
though  I  have  made  no  promises  that  they  should  not  be  held  to  account 
for  their  former  acts,  yet,  in  the  present  unsettled  state  of  our  Indian  rela 
tions,  I  think  it  would  be  unwise  to  seize  them,  and  transport  them  for 
trial.  I  would,  therefore,  respectfully  suggest  that  the  delivery  of  the 
Indians  be  suspended  for  the  present. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

G.  WRIGHT, 

Col.  9th  Infantry  commanding. 


171 

(No.  91.] 

DALLES,  O.  T.,  October  4th,  1856. 

Col.  Gr.  WRIGHT, 

Col.  Commanding  River  district : 

SIR  — I  have  received  your  letter  of  this  date,  in  answer  to  my  re 
quisition  for  the  delivery  of  Leschi,  Nelson,  Qui-e-muth,  Kitsap  and 
Stehi,  to  be  sent  to  the  Sound  to  be  tried  by  the  civil  authority. 

These  men  are  notorious  murderers,  and  committed  their  acts  of  atro 
city  under  circumstances  of  treachery  and  blood-thirstiness  almost  beyond 
example.  All  belong  to  bands  with  whom  treaties  have  been  made,  and 
in  the  case  of  all,  except  Nelson,  the  treaty  has  been  sanctioned  by  the 
Senate,  and  the  execution  of  the  treaty  has  been  placed  in  my  hand. 

Whether  a  treaty  has  been  made  or  not,  I  am  of  opinion  that  men 
guilty  of  such  acts  should  be  at  least  tried,  and  if  convicted,  punished, 
more  especially  should  this  be  done  in  cases  where,  by  treaty  stipulations, 
provision  is  made  for  the  punishment  of  such  offences. 

If  the  condition  of  things  is  so  unsettled  in  the  Yakima  that  the 
seizing  of  these  men,  after  such  arrangements  as  to  time,  &c.,  as  necessa 
rily  comes  within  the  discretion  of  the  force  making  the  seizure,  will  lead 
to  war,  the  sooner  the  war  commences  the  better.  Nothing,  in  my  judg 
ment,  will  be  gamed  by  a  temporising  policy. 

The  war  commenced  on  our  part  in  consequence  of  the  attempt  to 
arrest  the  murderers  of  Bolon,  Mattice,  and  others,  on  the  requisition  of 
the  Acting  Governor  of  Washington  territory.  If  this  demand  is  not 
inflexibly  insisted  upon,  and  peace  is  made  on  milder  terms,  it  will  be,  it 
seems  to  me,  a  criminal  abandonment  of  the  great  duty  of  protecting  our 
citizens,  will  depreciate  our  standing  with  the  Indians,  and  pave  the  way 
for  wars  hereafter. 

I  must,  therefore,  again  respectfully  make  requisition  for  the  delivery . 
of  the  Indians  mentioned,  in  order  that  they  may  be  sent  to  the  Sound  to 
be  tried  by  the  civil  court.    The  particular  mode  and  the  special  time  of 
making  the  seizure  rests  with  your  discretion. 

I  shall  send  special  agent  Shaw  to  the  Yakima  to  take  charge  of  the 
Indians  you  have  officially  reported  to  me  to  be  friendly,  and  of  Indians 
that  I  propose  to  incorporate  with  them. 

He  will  have  instructions  not  under  any  circumstances  to  receive 
these  Indians  on  the  reservation. 
I  am,  very  truly, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Governor  and  Superintendent  Indian  Affairs. 


172 

[No.  92.] 

HEAD  QUARTERS  W.  T.  VOLUNTEERS,          ) 
Fort  Mason,  Walla  Walla,  Aug.  25th,  1856.      ) 

LIEUT.  COL.  STEPTOE, 

9th  Inf.  Com.  Expedition  to  Walla  Walla  : 

.    "»/>'  '•»'•>,  V  *    *     i         -S" 

MY  DEAR  SIR  : — On  my  arrival  at  this  place  on  the  23d,  I  found  a 
messenger  from  the  Nez  Perce  country  who  brought  letters  from  Indian 
agent  William  Craig  to  Lieut.  Col.  Shaw,  stating  that  the  Nez  Perces 
would  all  attend  the  council.  In  the  evening  another  messenger  came 
with  information  that  the  Cayuse  and  Umatilla  chiefs  all  desired  to  come 
in,  if  advised  to  do  so  by  Looking  Glass. 

My  reply  was  that  I  should  be  glad  to  see  Kam-i-akin,  provided  he 
would  come  in  and  submit  himself  unconditionally  to  the  justice  and 
mercy  of  the  government. 

I  must  wait  a  few  days  before  I  can  judge  as  to  what  will  be  the 
result  of  the  council  in  reference  to  the  hostiles. 

The  main  object  of  the  council,  which  was  to  strengthen  and  con 
firm  the  Nez  Perces  and  Spokanes  in  their  friendship,  will  unquestionably 
be  accomplished. 

The  terms  of  service  of  the  volunteers  will  all  expire  on  the  8th 
September,  and  that  of  one  company  on  the  30th  of  this  month.  They 
number  one  hundred  and  fifty-six,  officers  and  men.  I  have  asked  them 
to  remain  till  the  council  was  concluded  and  the  valley  was  occupied  by 
the  regular  troops,  to  which  they  have  very  willingly  assented. 

From  present  appearances,  I  do  not  think  the  council  can  be  opened 
till  next  week  and  perhaps  not  till  the  middle  of  the  week.  I  particu 
larly  desire  your  presence,  and  that  of  at  least  a  portion  of  your  com 
mand  during  the  council.  The  trains  can  move  easily  from  the  Dalles  to 
this  point  in  eleven  days,  but  as  you  will  move,  I  suppose,  by  Fort  Walla 
Walla,  and  be  detained  there  perhaps  two  days  in  crossing  over  the  troops 
from  the  Yakima,  I  presume  you  will  be  fourteen  days  on  the  march. 
...Mv  I  will  ask,  however,  that  you  place  your  troops  somewhere  in  the 
general  vicinity  of  the  council  ground,  till  the  council  is  through.  My 
object  is  to  show  the  Indians  the  strength  of  our  people  and  the  unity  of 
our  councils. 

We  are  twenty-five  miles  from  Fort  Walla  Walla,  five  miles  from 
the  Whitman  valley,  and  about  seven  miles  from  the  saw  mill  claim  of 
Whitman  on  Mill  creek.  We  are  on  a  little  tributary  of  Mill  creek,  and 
about  one  mile  from  it. 


173 


Drop  me  a  line  by  the  return  express,  and  let  me  know  how  you  are 
getting  on. 

I  am,  sir,  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor,  W.  T. 


[No.  93.] 

WILLOW  CREEK,  Aug.  28,  1856. 

MY  DEAR  SIR  : — I  received  your  letter  by  the  courier,  and  was 
gratified  to  perceive  that  matters  were  likely  to  be  so  satisfactory  to  you. 

You  will  notice  where  I  am  with  my  train,  and  can  better  judge 
than  I  can,  what  time  must  elapse  before  I  will  reach  the  Walla  Walla. 
If  it  shall  appear  that  Capt.  Russell  cannot  cross  the  Columbia  without 
the  boat  waggons  with  me,  I  may  be  obliged  to  diverge  and  meet  him  at 
the  crossing  ;  it  is  probable,  however,  that  he  will  find  canoes  and  get 
across  without  any  aid  from  me,  in  which  event,  I  will  be  happy  to  attend 
the  council. 

Very  truely  yours, 
(Signed,)  E.  J.  STEPTOE. 


[No.  94.] 

COUNCIL  GROUND,  WALLA  WALLA  VALLEY,  W.  T;,      ) 
Sunday,  August  31,  1856.  ] 

Lieut.  E.  J.  STEPTOE, 

9th  Inf.  Com.  expedition  to  Walla  Walla: 

MY  DEAR  SIR  : — Your  letter  of  the  28th  by  John  Dunn  has  been 
received. 

The  Nez  Perces  are  coming  in.  The  advance,  about  thirty  men, 
reached  this  place  with  Craig.  The  whole  nation  has  crossed  Snake  river, 
and  will  be  here  Wednesday,  Sept.  3d.  An  express  reached  me  last  eve- 


uiug  from  the  Spokane.  Father  Ravalli  of  the  Cceur  d'Alene  mission, 
has  gone  in  person  through  the  tribes  in  this  quarter,  inviting  them  in  my 
name,  to  the  council. 

But  I  do  not  expect  a  single  Indian  of  the  hostiles,  belonging  to  the 
tribes  struck  by  Shaw  in  the  Grande  Ronde  at  the  council.  The  Cayuses, 
excepting  those  who  separated  last  fall,  are  completely  under  the  control 
of  the  young  men.  Certain  chiefs  desire  to  come  in,  but  dare  not  leave, 
and  the  hostiles  have  recently  received  a  great  encouragement. 

On  Thursday,  Scott's  pack  train,  consisting  of  fourteen  men,  with 
the  necessary  animals,  having  thirty-three  pack  loads  of  supplies  for  the 
troops  and  Indians,  and  escorted  by  a  force  of  twenty-five  volunteers,  un 
der  Lieut.  Grates,  was  attacked  within  fifteen  miles  and  almost  in  sight 
of  this  camp,  about  9  o'clock,  Thursday  morning,  and,  after  a  contest, 
which  lasted  the  whole  day,  the  whole  train  was  captured — the  party  es 
caping  in  the  night  with  simply  their  riding  horses.  The  affair  will  be 
bad  in  its  effects  upon  the  Cayuse,  Walla  Walla,  and  tribes  thence  in  the 
direction  of  the  Dalles. 

"  And  I  will  ask  you  to  use  every  exertion  to  get  here  as  soon  as 
possible,  for  I  want  the  benefit  of  the  occupation  of  the  valley,  by  your 
troops  at  the  opening  of  the  council. 

I  have  just  sent  an  express  to  the  Columbia,  with  a  letter  to  Russell 
offering  to  send  him  a  wagon  boat  if  he  should  not  find  canoes,  and  I 
have  asked  him  in  the  event  of  his  orders  authorising  him  so  to  do,  to 
come  at  once  to  the  general  vicinity  of  the  council  ground." 
I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Superintendent. 


{No.  95.] 

Walla  Walla  Valley,  W.  T.,  Aug.  31st,  1856. 


HEAD  QUARTERS  W.  T.  V.  ) 


€AFT.  RUSSELL, 

En  route  from  the  Yakima  : 

SIR  : — I  send  to-day  an  express  to  Lieut.  Col.  Steptoe,  who,  it  is 
supposed,  will  camp  on  the  Umatilla  at  Fort  Henrietta  to-night.  He  was 
,on  Willow  creek  Thursday  night,  three  marches  from  the  Umatilla, 


175 

The  Col.  wrote  ine,  stating  that  you  would  probably  be  able  to  effect 
a  crossing  with  canoes.  I  have  one  boat  waggon  here  which  I  will  send 
down  to  you  if  you  need  it. 

The  Nez  Perces  are  on  their  way  to  the  council,  the  whole  tribe, 
men,  women  and  children.  Their  advance  got  here  last  evening.  The 
remainder  will  be  here  on  Wednesday.  I  expect  a  representation  of  the 
friendly  tribes  in,  and  in  the  neighborhood  of,  the  Spokane. 

The  Nez  Perces  Indian who  carries  this  is  to  be  relied  on, 

and  send  back  word  by  him,  whether  it  will  be  consistent  with  your  ord 
ers  to  move  immediately  with  the  troops  under  your  command  to  the  vi 
cinity  of  the  council. 

We  are  about  twenty-five  miles  from  Fort  Walla  Walla,  and  about 

five  miles  above  the  Whitman  valley. 

•  •'*  i~-  f  '• 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  W.  T. 


N.  B. — An  express  is  just  in  from  Steptoe.  He  camped  last  night 
on  Butter  creek  (ten  miles  from  Umatilla)  and  will  probably  camp  on 
the  Umatilla  to-night.  It  is  probable  he  may,  however,  remain  in  camp 
to-day,  though  I  think  not. 


[No.  96.] 

Walla  Walla  Valley,  W.  T.,  Sept.  4th,  1856. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  W.  T.  V.,  ) 


Captain  D.  A.  RUSSELL, 

4th  Infantry,  U.  S.  A.,  on  the  Columbia  : 

SIR  : — Your  letter  of  the  2d  reached  me  in  the  night,  and  I  send 
down  my  waggon  boat  with  an  escort  of  twenty  men,  and  with  orders  to 
reach  you  in  the  night. 

Your  letter  to  Col.  Steptoe  I  forwarded  to  him  by  express  this 
morning.  An  Indian  express  just  in  brings  me  information  that  Col 


- 


176 

Steptoe  will  camp  to-night  at  Wild  Horse  creek,  and  will  descend  into  the 
valley  on  Friday. 

We  expect  the  Nez  Perces  at  our  camp  to-morrow. 
I  am,  sir,  with  much  respect, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Superintendent. 


[No.  911 

CAMP  ON  WILD  HORSE  CREEK,         } 
September  4th,  1856.  } 

Gov.  STEVENS,  &c.  : 

MY  DEAR  SIR  : — I  received  your  note  of  yesterday  by  the  two  Nez 
Perces  Indians  a  few  moments  since.  Accept  my  thanks  for  the  kind 
offer  of  the  boat  waggon. 

The  heavy  rain  of  yesterday  detained  me  on  the  Umatilla.  I 
marched  despite  of  it  but  had  to  go  into  camp  after  an  hour  or  so.  But 
to-morrow  afternoon  no  doubt  will  find  me  in  your  neighborhood. 

My  purpose  is  to  select  a  suitable  spot  for  a  camp  where  my  whole 
command  will  be  left  till  I  can  determine  where  to  establish  the  perma 
nent  post,  or  at  all  events,  where  we  can  best  winter.  I  shall,  therefore, 
take  the  road  to  Whitman's  in  the  morning. 

Yery  truely  yours, 
(Signed,)  E.  J.  STEPTOE. 


[No.  98.] 

COUNCIL  GROUND,  WALLA  WALLA  YALLEY,  W.  T.,    ) 
September  10th,  1856.  J 

Col.  E.  J.  STEPTOE, 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  make  requisition  for  the  presence  on  the 
council  ground  of  two  companies,  and  including  your  mountain  howitzers. 

I  have  especially  to  request  that  this  force  shall  be  on  the  ground 
to-night. 

The  Cay  uses  have  all  come  in,  and  it  is  important  in  my  opinion,  as 


177 

all  the  volunteers  leave  tomorrow  morning  to  be  discharged,  there  should 
be  a  force  on  the  ground  to  control  them. 

Respectfully  yours, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Superintendent. 


T^T  iA-V'''*'''     *"•"«  "'  "V  ' 

[No.  99.] 

L  J  .j<5   7fl  P?7  -.VJ-JT  li  ,-rr 

CAMP  ON  MILL  CREEK,  \ 

Sept.  10,  1856.      ) 

GOVERNOR  STEVENS,  &c.: 

SIR  : — Your  communication  of  this  day  has  just  been  received.  ''1 
regret  that  it  did  not  reach  me  earlier  in  the  day,  or  rather  night,  (for  it 
is  now  nearly  9  o'clock  at  night  J  in  which  event,  I  might  have  made  some 
such  arrangement  as  you  suggest.  I  do  not  think  it  advisable  to  move 
down  my  command,  or  the  part  of  it  you  request,  at  this  hour.  The 
effect  of  it  upon  the  Indians  could  not  fail  to  be  startling,  I  am  induced 
to  believe.  More  than  that,  I  have  not  the  shadow  of  a  doubt  that  the 
Cayuses  are  decided  to  conduct  themselves  properly  at  the  council.  If 
you  had  informed  me  this  morning  that  you  desired  the  presence  of  my 
command  I  would  have  encamped  near  you  to-night ;  as  it  is,  I  am  now 
some  seven  or  eight  miles  beyond  you. 

It  is  necessary  for  my  train  to  start  back  to  the  Dalles  in  the  morn 
ing,  and  I  have  occupation  very  constantly  for  the  dragoons  in  one  way 
or  another — all  which  leaves  me  but  a  small  force  to  prepare  and  guard 
my  winter  camp. 

My  advice  (if  you  will  permit  the  liberty)  is  that  the  council  busi 
ness  be  adjourned,  so  far  as  possible,  to  some  more  convenient  time.  It  is 
plain  that  I  shall  not  have  the  force  you  desire  to  despatch  to  the  council 
ground,  nor  any  force  to  remain  there  long.  And  permit  me  to  say  that 
my  instructions  from  Gen.  Wool  do  not  authorize  me  to  make  any  arrange 
ment,  whatever,  of  the  kind  you  wish.  Pardon  me  for  writing  so  much, 
but  the  fact  is,  my  position  is  one  which  seems  to  compel  a  lengthy  ex 
planation.  In  short,  if  I  thought  you  were  in  the  least  danger,  I  would 
not  hesitate  to  move  down  at  once  the  whole  of  my  force  ;  as  it  is,  I  can 
not  accede  to  your  request. 

In  haste,  very  truely  and  respectfully, 

B.  J.  STEPTOE, 

Brevet  CoL  U.  S.  A. 
23 


178 

f  No.  100.  ] 

(CONFIDENTIAL.) 

COUNCIL  GROUND,  WALLA  WALLA  YALEY,  W.  T.,    i 

Sept.  13th,  1856.  J 

LIEUT.   COL.  E.  J.  STEPTOE: 

MY  DEAR  SIR  : — The  council  did  not  adjourn  yesterday  till  near 
sundown,  too  late  for  me  to  visit  your  camp.  I  understand  the  feelings 
of  the  Indians  from  what  was  developed  yesterday. 

The  want  of  a  military  force  on  the  council  ground  seriously  embar 
rassed  me,  (I  have  retained  for  a  day  some  fifty  of  GofPs  company,)  but 
having  called  the  council  in  good  faith  as  the  Indian  superintendent  and 
also,  as  the  commissioner  to  treat  with  the  Indian  tribes  by  the  appoint 
ment  of  the  President,  I  shall  go  through  with  the  duty  I  have  under 
taken. 

One  half  of  the  Nez  Perces  and  all  the  other  tribes,  except  a  very 
few  persons,  are  unmistakeably  hostile  in  feeling.  The  Cayuses,  the  Walla 
Wallas  and  the  other  hostiles  were  so  when  they  came  in.  Hence  the 
requisition  I  made  upon  you  for  troops. 

I  particularly  desire  you  to  be  present  to-day,  if  your  duties  will 
permit,  and  I  will  also  state  that  I  think  a  company  of  your  troops  is 
essential  to  the  security  of  my  camp. 

I  shall,  as  I  said,  go  through  with  this  business  whatever  be  the  con 
sequences  as  regards  my  own  personal  safety,  but  I  regard  it  to  be  my 
duty  to  the  public,  to  the  Indians,  and  to  my  own  character. 

This  communication  is  marked  "  confidential, "  but  is  intended  as  an 
official  communication,  and  will  go  on  my  files  as  such,  only  I  do  not  think 
it  prudent,  that  my  judgment  as  to   the  aspect  of  affairs,  should  at  this 
time  be  disclosed  to  any  other  person  than  yourself. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  ob't.  servant, 
( Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEYENS, 

Governor  and  Superintendent. 


[No.  101.  J- 

CAMP  ON 

Sept.  13th,    1856. 


CAMP  ON  MILL  CREEK,.  W.  T.,      ) 


GOVERNOR  : — I  have  received  your  communication  of  to-day,  and 
regret  extremely  that  you  think  a  company  of  my  troops  to  be  "  essential 
to  the  safety"  of  your  camp. 


179 


In  a  previous  communication  I  suggested  that  if  you  distrusted  the 
safety  of  your  position,  the  council  might  be  adjourned  to  a  more  conve 
nient  time  and  place. 

As  you  know,  my  camp  for  the  winter  is  in  preparation ;  the  train 
has  been  unloaded  and  sent  back  to  the  Dalles,  and  much  valuable  prop 
erty,  which  cannot  be  now  removed,  lies  on  my  camp  ground.  If  the  In 
dians  are,  therefore,  really  meditating  an  outbreak,  it  will  be  difficult  for 
me  to  provide  for  the  defence  of  my  own  camp — impossible  to  defend  loth 
camps.  Under  these  circumstances,  if  you  are  resolved  to  go  on  with 
your  council,  does  it  not  seem  more  reasonable  that  you  shall  move  your 
camp  to  the  vicinity  of  mine  ? 

I  send  down  the  company  of  dragoons  to  bring  you  up  to  this  place 
if  you  desire  to  come. 

Allow  me  to  say  that  your  request  for  troops  embarrasses  me  fully 
as  much  as  you  can  be  by  their  absence  from  your  council  ground.  My 
force  is  so  small,  that,  to  be  efficient  against  the  large  number  of 
savages  in  the  neighborhood,  it  must  be  concentrated,  nor  can  I  detach 
any  portion  of  it,  in  execution  of  certain  instructions  received  from  Gen. 
Wool,  while  the  Indian  host  remain  so  near  to  me. 

Yery  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  E.  J.  STEPTOE, 

Brevet  Lieut.  Col.  TJ.  S.  A. 


_yj 

4 

A  ' 


|No.  102.] 

CAMP,  Sept.  19,  1856. 

Gov.  STEVENS,  &c., 

Council  Ground : 

GOVERNOR  : — I  have  just  received  your  note  asking  that  the  dra 
goons  be  sent  to  your  aid. 

Now,  the  Cayuses  have  burned  all  the  grass  near  me,  I  shall  have  to 
send  my  animals  quite  a  distance  for  grass,  and  if  I  send  the  dragoons  to 
you  I  shall  be  unable  to  herd  them.  Besides  that,  the  company  could  not 
return  to  me  for  some  time,  and  the  Indians  would  probably  turn  all  their 
attention  to  the  few  men  left  with  me.  I  have  no  block  nouses,  and 
shall  expect  to  be  annoyed  much. 


180 

Under  these  circumstances,  do  you  not  think  I  had  better  use  your 
train  and  move  with  you  to  the  Umatilla,  or  some  point  beyond,  where 
you  would  be  safe  from  molestation,  and  /  could  find  grass  abundant?  If 
I  had  my  train  I  would  not  hesitate  a  moment,  but  would  join  you  in 
the  morning  with  my  whole  command  rather  than  part  with  the  only 
mounted  men  I  have.  What  do  you  think  of  returning  to  this  camp  to 
night  or  in  the  morning,  taking  my  baggage  up  in  your  waggons,  and  our 
moving  off  together  ?  Let  me  hear  from  you  by  Richard.  I  cannot 
help  thinking  that  if  you  abandon  (burn  up)  your  old  waggons,  you  can 
easily  get  through  with  your  pack  animals  ;  but  what  think  you  of  my 
plan  of  going  together  ? 

Yours,  in  haste, 
(Signed,)  B.  J.  STEPTOE, 

?ii«l  3M1  tttrftfelttrfii?')    -V"--   '•*•-     -"  ; '-Ji    li^'i  itf$  C-  tf •*«»  VfOliA 
I  could  probably  send  you  Fletcher's  company,  with  most  ease,  but 

I  think  it  is  best  for  both  of  us  that  you  loose  a  day  and  take  up  our 
baggage. 

LT.  COL.  E.  J.  STEPTOE. 


[No.  103.] 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA, 
Sept.  24th,  1855. 


Capt.  M.  MALONEY, 

Commanding  Fort  Steilacoom,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — Positive  information  has  been  received  by  me  that  three 
American  citizens  have  been  murdered  by  the  Yakirna  Indians  on  the 
eastern  side  of  the  Cascade  mountains,  whilst  travelling  towards  the  Fort 
Colville  mines.  There  is  also  strong  probability  that  nine  others  have 
perished  in  a  similar  manner  and  by  the  same  hands. 

In  addition  to  this,  there  are  at  present  in  and  about  that  vicinity, 
some  thirty  other  persons,  either  going  to,  or  returning  from  the  mines, 
who  are  in  danger  of  sharing  the  same  fate. 

This  tribe,  on  the  ninth  day  of  June  last,  entered  into  treaty  stipula 
tions  with  the  United  States,  ceding  their  lands,  and  binding  themselves 
to  amity  with  all  citizens  of  the  United  States.  In  defiance,  however,  of 


181 

these  obligations,  they  have   taken  the  first  opportunity  to  murder  strag 
gling  parties  that  have  travelled  through  their  country. 

Under  these  circumstances,  1  have  to  request  that  a  detachment  of 
the  troops  under  your  command  may  be  despatched  at  the  earliest  mo 
ment  to  the  Yakima  country  to  administer  punishment  to  that  tribe,  and 
to  furnish  protection  to  such  citizens  as  may  be  remaining  there. 
I  am  sir,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

C.  H.  MASON, 
Acting  Governor,  W.  T. 


i';  -A  to  So^toiq  fvi$  m?>iiJ'  «lM;g 

<:!  •  har  I  1i  ,$boo*w  ;  too 

[No.  104.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASHINGTON,     -ftl' 
Olympia,  Oct.  15th,  1855.  ) 

>->7b)?.    :<"•::/•>•;;,  <»3/;  ni    .•{iiftUtt  ;  phuBOO. 

Capt.  M.  MALONEY, 

Commanding  Fort  Steilacoom  : 

SIR  :  —  In  compliance  with  the  request  of  Major  G.  J.  Raines,  I  have 
called  upon  the  people  of  this  territory  for  two  companies  of  volunteers 
to  co-operate  with  the  regular  troops  already  in,  and  about  to  be  sent 
into  the  field. 

Owing  to  the  scarcity  of  arms  in  the  territory,  I  have  to  request 
that  you  will  forward  to  me  as  soon  as  possible  at  Olympia,  all  the  mus 
kets  and  accoutrements  that  can  be  spared  from  Fort  Steilacoom. 

I  am,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(  Signed,)  C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor,  W.  T. 
' 

_  __ 


[No. 

CAMP 

Oct.  29th,  1855. 


CAMP  ON  NACHESS  RIVER,   ) 

J 


Major  G.  J,  RAINES, 

Fort  Vancouver,  W.  T.: 

MAJOR  :  —  In  accordance  with   orders  which  I  received  from  you,  I 
joined,  with  the  available  troops  at  Steilacoom,  amounting  to  seventy-five 


182 

men,  at  the  earliest  possible  moment,  the  21st  of  this  month,  Lieutenant 
Slaughter's  command,  which  had  fallen  back  to  the  White  river  prairies. 
I  remained  there  two  days,  until  I  was  joined  by  a  company  of  volun 
teers  under  command  of  Capt.  Hays,  on  the  24th.  I  commenced  my 
march  for  the  Yakima  country,  expecting  to  find  you  in  the  field.  Yes 
terday  I  arrived  at  this  camp,  when  I  laid  over  to-day  to  recruit  my  ani 
mals.  I  received  an  express  to-day  from  Steilacoom  from  which  I  get  in 
formation  that  you  will  not  be  on  your  march  for  from  one  to  two  weeks. 
I  have  also  got  information  that  there  are  from  two  to  three  thousand 
Indians  well  armed  and  determined  to  fight,  in  my  front,  and,  after  consid 
ering  the  matter  over,  have  concluded  that  it  is  my  duty  to  return  to 
Steilacoom.  My  reasons  are  as  follows,  viz  :  my  force  is  not  sufficiently 
strong  to  fight  them  and  protect  the  animals  and  provisions  which  I  have 
along  with  me  ;  secondly,  if  I  advance  I  must  meet  them,  as  there  is  no 
point  before  me  before  I  get  into  the  plains,  where  I  can  camp  and  defend 
myself  and  animals,  where  I  will  not  be  cut  off  from  communication,  both 
in  front  and  rear  by  high  water,  before  you  can  get  into  the  enemy's 
country  ;  thirdly,  in  accordance  with  your  orders  I  started  with  thirty 
days'  provisions  ;  I  have  been  out  twelve  days,  and  therefore  have  only 
eighteen  days'  provisions,  which  would  be  out  before  my  command  could 
join  yours.  There  is  already  snow  upon  the  mountains,  and  there  is  every 
reason  to  believe  that  in  three  or  four  days  it  will  close  the  road 
from  here  to  Steilacoom,  and  also  raise  the  Nachess  river,  so  that  it  will 
prevent  communication  between  this  place  and  the  Yakima  plains. 

I  am  of  opinion  that  the  best  way  to  get  the  troops  from  Steilacoom 
into  the  enemy's  country  will  be  by  way  of  the  Dalles. 

I  also  learn  from  the  same  express  that  the  northern  Indians  are 
showing  themselves  in  considerable  numbers  at  Steilacoom  and  other  points 
on  the  Sound,  intending,  with  other  Indians,  to  strike  a  blow  in  case  I 
should  be  defeated  here. 

I  am,  Major,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
( Signed,)  M.  M ALONE Y, 

Capt.  4th  Inf.  Com.  Detachment. 


183 

[No.  106.] 

FORT  STEILACOOM,  W.  T.      ) 
Oct.  30th,  8  o'clock,  A.  M.,  1855.          j 

;,. '  V; 
Hon.  C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — I  have  just  received  an  express  from  Capt.  Sterrett,  com 
manding  "  Decatur, "  informing  me  that  the  Indians  on  White  river  have 
broken  out,  and  that  seven  whites  and  two  Indians  have  been  murdered. 
Amongst  the  whites  were  one  or  two  women. 

On  Sunday,  the  28th,  fifty-five  men  under  the  command  of  Captain 
C.  C.  Hewitt,  went  up  the  Dewamish  en  route  for  the  White  river  coun 
try. 

"  A  rumor  came  in  here  last  evening,  (brought  by  one  of  the  rangers 
and  friendly  Indians)  to  the  effect  that  McAllister  and  nine  others  of  the 
rangers  were  killed  last  night  on  the  Puyallup,  and  that  the  Indians  are 
advancing  towards  this  post  250  strong.  I  am  unable  to  say  how  true 
this  is,  bnt  fear  it  is  but  too  true. 

Yery  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(  Signed,)  JOHN  NUGEN, 

2d  Lieut.  4tk  Infantry. 


i 
•: 
[No.  10t.] 

FORT  STEILACOOM,  W.  T.r     } 
Oct.  31st,  1855.  > 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adj't.  Gen.  W.  T.  Volunteers  : 
J 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  state  that  I  have  called  upon  the  citizens 
of  Pierce  county  for  one  company  of  volunteers  to  act  against  the  Indi 
ans  on  White  river  and  vicinity,  who  have  been  murdering  our  citizens, 
and  attacked  the  company  of  rangers  under  Captain  Eaton,  mustered  into 
the  service  of  the  United  States. 

This  call  has  been  promptly  responded  to,  and  a  company  of  forty 
are  now  ready  to  take  the  field,  under  the  command  of  Capt.  Wallacer 
who  will  report  to  you  for  orders. 


184 

I  wish  you  would  come  down  to  our  post,  as  I  think  your  presence 
would  expedite  matters.  I  trust  you  will  succeed  in  getting  another  com 
pany  in  your  place,  as  I  am  of  the  opinion  that  no  less  than  one  hundred 
men  should  think  of  taking  the  field,  they  to  act  together,  and  the  work 
will  speedily  be  finished.  I  trust  the  acting  Governor  will  approve  of 
my  action,  as  I  could  see  no  other  way  to  maintain  the  peace  of  our 
country* 

I  am  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Yout  most  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  JOHN  NUGEN, 

2d  Lieut.  4th  Inf.  Com.  Post; 


'J/fi    K)  3«O     1'f    H:  ili-iy.-)  1^$I  -j'i  ;K-  Fit 


[No.  108.] 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  FORT  STEILACOOM,  | 
November  1st,  1855.  ) 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adj't.  Gen.  W.  T.  Volunteers,  Olympia  : 

Sm  : — ^1  have  detained  Capt.  Wallace's  company  of  volunteers  to 
assist  hi  protecting  this  post  in  case  an  attack  should  be  made.  Dr.  Tol- 
mie,  just  in  from  Nisqually,  informs  me  that  one  of  his  shepherds  saw  a 
band  of  some  twenty  Klickatats  just  in  rear  of  Nisqually  last  night. 

I  have  nearly  all  the  women  and  children  in  the  county  at  the  post, 
and  will  of  course  protect  them. 

I  would  respectfully  request  that  all  the  men  in  this  section  of  the 
country  be  called  out,  as  I  am  firmly  of  the  belief  that  we  are  to  have  a 
general  Indian  war  in  this  vicinity. 

Send  me  down  cartridges  at  the  earliest  moment,  as  it  is  reported  the 
Indians  are  to  make  an  attempt  at  taking  our  fort  to-night.  This  is  only 
a  report,  but  I  wish  to  have  plenty  of  ammunition,  and  I  am  rather  short 
just  at  this  time. 

With  great  respect,  I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Your  most  obedient  servant^ 

JOHN  NUflEN, 
2d  Lieut.  4th  Inf.  Com.  Post. 


A  185 

[No.  109.] 

FORT 

Nov.  12,  1855. 


FORT  STEILACOOM,  W.  T,,     ) 


JAMES  TILTON, 

Adj't.  Gen.  W.  T.  Volunteers : 

SIR  : — I  have  just  received  an  express  from  Capt.  Maloney.  I  send 
you  a  copy  of  his  letter  to  Major  Raines. 

The  following  men  composed  the  express  :  Mr.  Bright,  Jos.  Miles, 
A.  B.  Moses,  Tidd,  Bradley,  Dr.  Burns,  and  Kabbeson,  your  sheriff. 
The  express  was  ambuscaded  near  White  river,  and  Miles  killed  and 
Moses  mortally  wounded  and  left  in  the  woods. 

I  sent  Capt.  Wallace  with  his  company  to  open  communications 
with  Capt.  Maloney,  who  will  reach  White  river  to-night,  and  I  fear  small 
parties  will  be  coming  in  from  his  camp  to-morrow.  Capt.  Wallace  will 
mako  a  forced  march,  and  reach  Capt.  Maloney  before  day  light,  if  he 
has  good  luck. 

Hurry  up  the  rangers,  so  that  there  may  be  short  work  of  this  mat 
ter.  You  had  better  let  Mrs.  Moses  know  this  sad  news  yonrself.  If 
he  is  still  alive  Capt.  Wallace  will  rescue  him. 

Yery  respectfully,  yours, 

(Signed,)  JOHN  NUGEN, 

Lt.  4th  Inf.  Coin.  Post. 


[No.  110.] 

FORT  STEILACOOM,  W.  T.,    ) 
Nov.  4th,  6  P.  M.,  1855.  J 

JAMES  TILXON, 

Adj't.  Gen.  W.  T.  V.,  Olympia : 

SIR  : — I  have  just  received  an  express  from  Capt.  Maloney,  inform 
ing  me  that  Lieut.  Slaughter,  with  fifty  regulars,  and  Capt.  Hays,  with 
fifty  volunteers,  had  met  the  Indians  yesterday  about  8  A.  M..  They  had 
taken  a  position  on  the  right  bank  of  the  river,  and  opposed  the  troops 
crossing.  The  river  was  too  high  to  ford,  and  the  Indians,  behind  logs 
24 


186 

firing,  so  the  fight  became  general,  and  lasted  until  about  4  p.  M.,  thirty 
Indians  killed,  and  no  telling  how  many  wounded,  as  they  were  carried  to 
the  rear.  Slaughter  had  some  men  posted  on  a  hill  in  rear  of  his  posi 
tion,  where  they  could  see  and  count  every  Indian  who  fell.  Slaughter 
killed  one,  and  Lieut.  Harrison  killed  two. 

Our  loss,  one  soldier  killed,  who  was  falling  a  tree  in  order  to  cross 
the  stream  ;  one  soldier  wounded  severely,  and  one  volunteer  wounded. 

To-day  they  had  one  hundred  and  fifty  men  to  hunt  them  up.     They 

will  have  hard  work  to  keep  out  of  the  way  of  the  troops. 

*  *  *  *  *  *  * 

Col.  Moses'  body  was  found,  and  Capt.  Maloney  says  he  will  bring 

it  in  when  he  returns.     Miles'  body  was  found  to-day. 

******* 

Mr.  Tidd  carries  an  express  to  the  Columbia  river.  If  you  can  ex 
pedite  his  movements  please  do  so.  Capt.  Wallace  joined  Capt.  Maloney 
yesterday,  and  the  rangers  left  here  to-day,  and  will  join  him  probably 
to-morrow. 

Yours  truely, 

JOHN  NUG-EN, 
Lt.  4th  Inf.  Com.  Post. 


[No.  111.] 

CAMP  CONN 

November  6,  1855. 

Hon.  CHAS.  H.  MASON, 


CAMP  CONNELLS,  ON  WHITE  RIVER,    | 


Acting  Governor  of  W.  T. : 

SIR: — -I  have  the  honor  to  inform  you  of  my  whereabouts.  I  ar 
rived  here  on  the  2d,  found  Connell's  place  burned  down,  searched  all 
around,  and  found  Lieut.  McAllister's  body  about  one  mile  from  this 
farm.  I  knew  that  the  Indians  must  have  been  close  at  hand,  and  next 
morning,  having  got  on  their  trail,  Capt.  Hays  and  Lieut.  Slaughter 
started  after  them  to  a  crossing  of  White  river,  where  the  Indians  were 
found  on  the.  opposite  side  of  the  river.  They  opened  fire  on  us.  One  of 
my  company  fell  dead.  The  fire  was  returned  by  the  command,  both 
regulars  and  volunteers,  from  nine  o'clock  till  three  o'clock  P.  M.  They 
had  the  advantage  of  the  ground,  but  still  there  were  over  thirty  killed, 


187 

/ 

and  I  don't  know  how  many  wounded.  We  conld  not  cross  the  river  on 
that  day.  Next  day  I  started  a  command  after  them,  and  found  them 
on  the  opposite  side  of  Green  river  ;  they  showed  but  little  fight.  We 
had  two  wounded  ;  I  can't  say  how  many  Indians  were  wounded. 

The  rivers  are  so  high  the  Indians  have  the  advantage  of  us,  but 
still  I  think  we  can  clean  a  good  many  of  them  out  yet  before  we  close 
the  winter's  campaign. 

Capt.  Hay's  company,  J  consider,  deserves  my  warmest  praise.  A 
better  company  could  not  be  brought  into  the  field  to  act  against  Indians. 
I  have  always  found  them  ready  and  active  at  any  moment,  and  they 
have  my  most  hearty  thanks,  both  officers  and  men,  and  hereafter  you 
will  be  informed  of  those  most  gallant,  but  at  present  I  can  say  nothing, 
for  they  are  all  gallant. 

I  am  sorry  Mr.  Bright  had  to  run  such  risks,  but  at  the  same  time 
I  am  glad  he  escaped.  I  hope  he  has  not  suffered  much.  Poor  Moses 
and  Miles  !  I  sent  their  bodies  to  the  Fort  with  directions  to  have  cof 
fins  made.  I  suppose  you  will  have  them  taken  to  their  friends. 

What  do  you  think  of  my  falling  back  ?  I  had  orders  from  Major 
Raines  to  proceed  to  the  Yakima  country  to  unite  with  the  troops  at  the 
Catholic  mission.  If  I  had  not  fallen  back,  what  would  have  become  of 
the  Sound  country  ?  If  I  had  fallen  back  two  days  sooner,  the  murders 
would  not  have  taken  place.  I  have  informed  Major  Raines  that  I  can 
not  spare  one  man  from  this  section  of  country. 

Capt.  Wallace  reported  yesterday,  and  Captain  Eaton  to-day.  Capt. 
Eaton  will,  I  believe,  be  of  good  service. 

Slaughter  and  Hays  have  just  returned.  Slaughter,  in  crossing  the 
Puyallup,  was  fired  on,  and  three  men  mortally  wounded — the  guide,  Ed 
gar,  a  man  by  the  name  of  Parsons,  and  one  Soldier,  also  one  soldier 
slightly  wounded.  The  Indians  lay  in  ambush,  and  always  have  the  first 
fire. 

Very  truely  yours, 

M.  MALONEY. 


188 

[No.  112.] 

FORT 

Nov.  9,  1855. 


FORT  STEILACOOM,  W.  T.,      ) 


JAMES  TILTON, 

Adj't.  Gen.  W.  T.  V.,  Olympia  : 

SIR  : — I  send  you  a  letter  received  from  Gapt.  Maloney's  camp  last 
evening.  The  troops  had  another  running  fight  with  the  Indians  on  the 
4th  inst.  This  brush  took  place  on  Green  river.  The  Indians  took  ad 
vantage  of  the  thick  brush  to  fire  on  the  advance  guard,  after  which 
they  would  run. 

In  the  affair  Edgar  was  mortally  wounded,  also,  a  soldier  named 
Kellet,  and  a  packer  named  Perham.  Andrew  Birge  and  two  soldiers 
severely  wounded. 

The  Indians  on  the  lower  Puyallup  have  broken  out,  so  there  is  more 
work. 

Capt.  Maloney's  pack  train  is  coming  in,  and  will  reach  this  post 
to-day.  The  train  brings  the  remains  of  Moses,  Miles,  and  McAllister. 
I  wish  to  know  whether  the  bodies  are  to  be  sent  to  Olympia  or  to  be 
intered  here.  Let  me  know  by  return  of  express. 

Capt.  Wallace's  company  comes  in  with  the  pack  train. 

A  company  of  seventeen  men,  under  Capt.  Carson,  raised  here, 
started  yesterday  for  the  ower  Puyallup. 

Yery  truely  yours, 
(Signed,)  JOHN  NUGEN. 


[No.  113.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,      ) 
Olympia,  Nov.  24th,  1855.  j 

CAPT.  E.  D.  KEYES, 

Commanding  Fort  Steilacoom  : 

SIR  : — Owing  to  the  great  scarcity  of  arms,  ammunition,  accoutre 
ments,  and  ordnance  stores  in  general,  as  well  as  the  lack  of  subsistence, 


189 

• 

in  this  territory,  I  have  to  request  that,  as  far  as  you  can  possibly  do  so, 
you  will  furnish  the  volunteer  force  now  in  the  field  west  of  the  Cascade 
mountains. 

With  great  respect,  I  have  the  honor  to  be, 
Your  obedient  servant, 

CHAS.  H.  MASON, 
Acting  Governor  W.  T. 


[No.  114.] 

HEJ 

Fort  Steilacoom,  Nov.  26,  1855. 


HEAD  QUARTERS  PUGET  SOUND  DISTRICT,    ) 


Capt.  GILMORE  HAYS, 

Com.  Co.  "  B,"  W.  T.  Volunteers  : 

SIR  : — You  are  hereby  directed  to  proceed  with  your  company,  and 
examine  the  country  on  the  upper  Nesqually,  with  a  view  to  ascertain 
whether  any  hostile  Indians  have  taken  refuge  in  that  section  of  the  ter 
ritory. 

Having  completed  that  duty,  you  will  proceed  to  the  south,  in  the 
direction  of  the  Skookum  Chuck,  examining  the  country  along  the  base 
of  the  mountains,  and  particularly  any  trail  that  may  be  found  leading  to 
the  eastward  in  the  direction  of  the  mountains,  or  to  the  southward  in 
the  direcfion  of  the  Cowlitz  river. 

If,  after  exhausting  the  rations  which  will  be  furnised  your  command, 
you  deem  it  necessary  to  remain  any  longer  in  that  section,  you  will  send 
your  train  to  this  post  for  more  provisions. 
I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  E.  D.  KEYES, 

Captain  3d  Artillery,  Commanding  Post. 


190 

[Xo.  115.] 

HEAD  Qi 

Fort  Steilacoom,  Dec.  4th,  1855. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  PUGET  SOUND  DISTRICT,          ) 


Acting  Governor  C.  H.  MASON, 

Olympia,  W.  T.  : 

SIR  : — In  order  that  I  may  be  able  to  acquaint  myself  more  inti 
mately  with  Indian  affairs  in  this  part  of  the  territory,  I  take  the  liberty 
to  request  that  you  will  forward  to  me  a  list  of  the  sub-Indian  agents  on 
this  side  the  mountains,  their  several  stations,  and  the  number  of  Indians 
they  each  have  in  charge.  It  will  also  'be  of  service  to  me  if  those  agents 
could  be  instructed  to  report  to  me  all  changes  that  may  occur  at  their 
several  posts. 

Dr.  Tolmie,  of  the  Hudson's  Bay  company,  has  applied  to  me  for  a 
guard  of  soldiers  to  protect  his  stores  at  Fort  Nesqually.  As  our  pack 
animals  are  small  in  number,  and  nearly  broken  down,  and  as  the  rivers 
are  getting  high  that  we  cannot  ford  them  with  supplies,  it  may  be  nec 
essary  to  withdraw  the  troops  from  the  field  in  a  short  time,  and  to  dis 
tribute  them  at  such  points  as  may  most  need,  and  such  as  have  the  best 
claims  to  protection.  In  view  of  such  a  state  of  things,  and  of  the  case 
in  all  its  relations,  do  you  think  it  advisable  for  me  to  send  a  guard  to 
Fort  Nisqually. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

*  ^'  **/      *      -j      i '  t      H  *1  i"*y  i        K  •    '"  i   *  $ '     *li »  if  /f  t  ^i     ' i  i  '•  • '    ^At< "  t    i  • .    r.' 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  E!  D.  KEYES, 

Capt.  3d  Artillery,  Commanding. 


NOTE.  —  The  information  asked  for  in  the  foregoing  letter  of  Capt. 
E.  D.  Keyes  was  furnished  him  by  acting  Governor  C.  H.  Mason,  in  his 
Better,  dated  Dec.  6,  1855. 


• 


191 

[No.  116.] 

HEAD   QUARTERS,  PUGET  SOUND  DISTRICT,    ) 
Fort  Steilacoom,  W.  T.,  Dec.  7,  1855,  (6  p.  M.)      ) 

Acting  Governor  C.  H.  MASON, 

Olympia,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — I  have  just  received  information  that  on  Tuesday  night  last 
while  Lieut.  Slaughter  was  sitting  in  a  small  house  at  his  camp,  about  two 
and  a  half  miles  above  the  forks  of  White  and  Green  rivers,  conversing 
with  Capt.  Hewett,  Lieut.  Harrison,  and  Dr.  Taylor,  the  Indians  fired  on 
them  and  killed  Lt.  Slaughter  at  the  first  discharge.  Two  soldiers  were 
also  killed  on  the  spot,  and  five  others  wounded,  of  whom  one  is  since 
djead.  Lieut.  Slaughter's  body  has  arrived  here. 

It  is  reported  on  all  hands  that  it  is  impossible  to  operate  against 
the  Indians  with  any  effect  in  the  country  on  the  White,  Green,  and  Pu- 
yallup  rivers,  at  this  season  of  the  year,  and  I  know  it  to-be  so  from  per 
sonal  observation.  To  continue  such  a  course  will  break  down  all  our 
men  and  effect  no  harm  to  the  Indians.  Our  pack  animals  are  broken 
down,  and  we  must  establish  our  forces  on  our  own  ground  in  places 
where  they  will  not  suffer  at  night,  and  where  they  can  best  protect  the 
settlers.  As  you  must  be  far  better  acquainted  with  such  points,  I  would 
request  that,  if  convenient,  you  will  come  and  see  me  to-morrow. 

I  send  by  the  bearer  a  letter  to  Capt.  Hays,  with  directions  for  him 
to  concentrate  his  company  at  Bradley's,  to  go  to  the  relief  of  forty  men 
now  encamped  on  the  other  side  of  the  Puyallup,  about  three  miles  from 
the  ford.  I  do  not  know  where  Capt.  Hays  is  at  this  mpment.  If  you 
know  please  direct  the  bearer. 

Mrs.  Slaughter  is  at  Olympia.  Please  keep  the  dreadful  news  of 
her  husband's  death  a  secret,  until  Lieut.  Nugen  can  break  it  to  her  cau 
tiously. 

I  am  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Yout  most  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  E.  D.  KEYES, 

Captain  3d  Artillery,  Commanding, 


192 
[No.  117.] 

Fort  Steilacoom,  W.  t.;  Jan.  4,  1856. 


HEAD  QUARTERS^  PUGET  SOUND  DISTICT,    ) 


Hon.  C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor,  W.  T.: 

SIR  :— =- In  answer  to  your  letter  of  the  3d  inst.,  I  have  the  honor  to 
reply  that  I  have  no  authority  to  direct  Capt.  Henness  in  regard  to  the 
enlistment  of  men  in  his  company. 

When  I  assumed  command  of  this  department,  the  24th  of  Novem 
ber,  I  found  that  four  companies  had  been  mustered  into  the  service  of 
the  United  States  by  you  and  Capt.  Maloney,  4th  infantry,  and,  owing  to 
the  apparent  necessity  for  their  services,  I  concluded  to  issue  to  them  such 
supplies  as  could  be  spared  from  the  public  stores.  The  ammunition  and 
clothing  at  this  post  is  now  so  much  reduced  that  I  cannot  possibly  spare 
any  more  to  the  volunteers,  and  the  amount  of  provisions  on  hand  is  not 
more  than  enough  for  six  weeks  issue  to  the  regular  troops.  Under  such 
circumstances,  therefore,  I  feel  myself  called  on  to  notify  your  Excellency 
that,  at  the  expiration  of  the  first  three  months'  service  of  the  volunteers, 
I  shall  not  be  able  to  make  further  issues  to  them.  There  is  no  law,  nor 
have  I  any  instructions  to  authorize  me  to  assume  command  of,  or  to  fur 
nish  supplies  to  the  volunteers  in  this  territory.  Their  service  being  abso 
lutely  requisite,  I  assumed  the  responsibility  of  giving  them  orders  and 
furnishing  them  with  supplies  until  definite  instructions  could  be  sent  me 
from  my  superior  officers.  No  such  instructions  have  been  received,  and 
I  am,  therefore,  obliged  to  inform  you  that,  as  matters  stand,  I  cannot 
continue  my  connection  with  the  volunteers  after  the  expiration  of  the 
first  three  months  of  their  service.  The  W.  T.  volunteers  have  first  rate 
capacity  for  service,  and  if  they  should  be  retained  on  duty,  it  will  afford 
me  great  pleasure  to  act  in  concert  with  them. 

Will  you  please  to  send  me  by  the  return  of  the  express  the  date  of 
the  commencement  of  the  service  of  the  several  companies.  The  follow 
ing  is  the  regulation  on  that  point : 

"  The  date  of  the  enrollment  in  the  caption  and  one  of  the  columns, 
"  will  be  that  of  the  day  of  arrival  of  the  company  with  organization 
"  complete  or  full  at  the  place  of  general  rendezvous,  in  compliance  with 
"  orders  from  the  proper  authority,  but  not  prior  to  the  day  specified  in 
"  the  order,  which  date  of  enrollment  will  be  the  commencement  of  the  term 
"  of  service  and  of  publie  supplies,  unless  otherwise  specially  ordered, 
"  without  regard  to  the  date  of  muster,  or  that  of  previous  company  or- 
11  ganization." 


193 


In  case  of  necessity,  I  wish  you  to  understand  that  I  will  share  the 
last  thing  I  have  with  the  volunteers. 

I  am,  sir,  with  much  respect, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  E.  D.  KEYES, 

Capt.  3d  Artillery,,  Commanding. 


[No.  118.] 

EXECI 

OLYMPIA,  Jan.  5th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  W.  T., 


Capt.  E.  D.  KEYES, 

Com.  Puget  Sound  Dist,  Fort  Steilacoom  : 

SIR  : — Your  letter  of  the  4th  Distant,  has  been  received.  I  am 
somewhat  doubtful  as  to  our  being  able  to  furnish  supplies  to  the  volun 
teer  forces  that  have  mustered  into  the  service,  without  your  assistance. 
They  will,  therefore,  be  discharged  at  the  termination  of  their  three 
months. 

The  commencement  of  the  service  of  the  various  companies  is  as 
follows  : 

Co.  B,  Capt.  Gilmore  Hays,  Oct.  14,  1855. 
"   H,     "      C.  C.  Hewitt,       "    25,     " 
"   F,     "      B.  L.  Henness,  Nov.  1,     " 
"   D,     "     W.H.Wallace,    "     3,     " 

These  companies  were  not  organized,  as  you  are  aware,  under  any 
particular  law  or  regulation,  but  from  the  necessity  of  the  case.  The 
above  are,  therefore,  the  dates  of  their  reporting  to  me  for  duty. 

I  highly  appreciate  the  compliment  you  pay  to  our  citizen  soldiery, 
and  your  willingness  to  co-operate  with  such  volunteer  forces  as  may  be 
called  into  the  field. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor  W.  T. 
25 


194 

[No.  119.] 

Exi 

OLYMPIA,  Jan.  6th,  (11  A.  M.,)  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,  ) 


Capt.  E.  D.  KEYES, 

Fort  Steilacoom : 

SIR  : — A  small  band  of  Indians  have  just  arrived  from  the  reserve 
in  charge  of  A,  J.  Simmons,  Esq. 

They  bring  the  intelligence  that  last  night  Leschi  and  thirty-eight 
of  his  Indians  were  at  the  reserve  in  charge  of  Dr.  Webber,  and  have 
Mr.  Swan  tied — that  to-night  they  will  come  to  Mr.  Simmon's  reserve  for 
a  similar  purpose — that  the  balance  of  the  hostile  Indians,  one  hundred 
in  number,  are  on  the  watch  on  the  Nisqually  plains.  This  information 
is  brought  by  Indian  "  John,"  who  was  out  with  Lieut.  Slaughter.  He 
urther  states  that  the  Puyallup  Indians,  in  charge  of  Dr.  Webber,  are 
going  to  leave  the  reservation  to-night  and  go  up  the  river. 

A  force  of  thirty  men  will  leave  here  to-day  for  Mr.  Simmon's  res 
ervation  to  endeavor  to  catch  the  hostile  Indians  if  they  come. 

You,  of  course,  will  take  such  steps  as  you  deem  necessary  in  your 
direction,  and  if  possible,  endeavor  to  cut  off  the  retreat  up  the  Puy 
allup. 

The  reservation  of  A.  J.  Simmons  is  on  an  island  eleven  miles  north 
of  west  of  Olympia. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
f  Signed,)  C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor,  W.  T. 


[No.  120.] 

FORT  STEILACOOM,  Jan.  6th,  (3  P.  M.J  1856. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  PUGET  SOUND  DISTRICT,    ) 


Hon.  C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor  W.  T.: 

gm  : — Your  note  of  11,  A.  M.,  to-day,  is  this  moment  received.    I 
received  the  same  information  it  conveys,  concerning  Dr.  Webber's  re- 


195 


serve,  last  night  at  6J  o'clock,  p.  M.  I  immediately  sent  a  dispatch  to 
Capt.  Gansevoort  of  the  "  Decatur,  "  to  request  him  to  send  up  as  many 
boats  as  he  could  spare.  Afterwards  I' sent  an  express  to  Dr.  Tolmie, 
requesting  him  to  send  the  steamer  "  Beaver  "  to  Steilacoom,  which  he 
kindly  complied  with.  Capt.  Maloney  with  thirty  men,  left  in  the  "  Bea 
ver  "  at  daylight  this  morning  for  the  reserve,  and  possibly  they  may  cap 
ture  Leschi's  canoes  and  prevent  the  departure  of  the  Puyallups.  I  am 
waiting  for  news  with  the  utmost  anxiety.  At  nine  o'clock  this  morning, 
a  canoe  full  of  Indians  left  the  reserve,  saying  Leschi  and  his  band  were 
still  there,  and  that  Mr.  Swan  was  not  tied,  but  that  Leschi  was  going 
to  carry  him  off  for  his  secretary. 

The  "  Active  n  is  reported  this  moment  to  be  in  sight,  and.  I  am  go 
ing  over  in  her  myself. 

Leschi,  will  probably  take  to  the  woods,  and  if  he  looses  his  canoes 
you  know  what  chances  there  may  be  for  his  escape  by  land.  If  you 
can  set  a  trap  for  him  in  your  quarter  I  trust  you  will  do  so.  There 
ought  to  be  guards  at  all  the  reserves. 

In  reference  to  one  hundred  hostiles  in  Nesqually  plains,  I  give  less 
credit  to  that  report  than  to  any  other.  I  was  myself  yesterday  at 
Bradley's,  McLeod's,  Murray's,  and  Sandy  Smith's,  and  saw  no  signs  of 
Indians.  I  must  have  gone  over  the  ground  where  they  are  reported  to 
be. 

Considering  the  importance  of  this  centre  of  operations  and  the 
town  of  Steilacoom,  I  cannot  prudently  reduce  my  force  here  much  lower 
than  it  is.  Taking  out  the  sick  and  wounded  (of  which  we  have  a  con 
siderable  number)  I  have  only  160  regulars  all  told,  under  my  command 
in  all  this  part  of  the  territory. 

As  you  know  the  situations  of  the  reserves  better  than  I  do,  may  it 
not  be  well  for  you  to  send  guards  at  once  from  Capt.  Hay's  and  Hen- 
ness'  companies.  If  you  think  best  will  you  do  so  ? 

I  do  not  know  how  long  I  shall  be  absent  in  the  "  Active." 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  ob't.  servant, 
(Signed,)  E.  D.  KEYES, 

Captain  3d  Artillery,  Commanding  Post. 


196 

[No;  121.] 

Fort  Steilacoom,  W.  T.,  Jan.  10th,  1856. 
Hon.  C.  H.  MASON, 


HEAD  QUARTERS  PUGET  SOUND  DISTRICT,    | 


Acting  Governor  W.  T.  i 

SIR  : — On  the  4th  instant,  I  had  the  honor  to  inform  you  that  I  had 
neither  law  nor  instructions  to  warrant  me  in  giving  orders  to  the  volun 
teers.  I  have  none  yet,  but  I  will  furnish  provisions  till  the  end  of  three 
months.  I  cannot  give  them  further  orders  with  propriety. 

I  have  heard  directly  and  indirectly  from  Leschi,  and  the  tempori 
zing  course  I  am  pursuing,  I  feel  certain,  is  the  reason  why  he  and  the 
hos tiles  have  ceased  their  depredations.  I  have  repeatedly  stated  in  my 
letters  that  this  war  cannot  be  effectually  prosecuted  without  first  estab 
lishing  posts  in  the  enemy's  country,  so  that  the  men  may  go  out  without 
pack  trains,  and  may  generally  sleep  dry.  My  men  who  were  out  with 
Lieut.  Slaughter  have  many  of  them,  since  been  disabled  with  rheuma 
tisms.  I  deem  it  necessary  to  record  my  opinion  that  a  forward  move 
ment  at  this  time  would  not  hasten  the  termination  of  the  war,  but  might 
and  probably  would,  induce  the  hostiles  to  recommence  their  depredations. 
I  hope  soon  to  get  re-inforcernents,  and  then  operations  will  commence 
at  once. 

Yery  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  E.  D.  KEYES, 

Capt.  3d  Artillery,  Commanding. 


[No.  122.] 

EXECUTIVE  C 

OLYMPIA,  Feb.  11,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASH., 


Lieut.  Col.  SILAS  CASEY, 

Commanding  Puget  Sound  District  : 

SIR  : — I  shall  move  a  force  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  volunteers 
to  Montgomerys  day  after  to-morrow,  and  there  establish  a  block-house. 
The  block-house  on  the  Yelm  Prairie  was  completed  last  evening.  Our 
volunteer  force,  exclusive  of  teamsters  and  quartermaster's  men,  now 


197 

amounts  to  one  hundred  and   sixty  men,  all  rendezvoused  at,  and  in  the 
vicinity  of  the  Yelm  prairie. 

I  am  well  off  for  supplies  generally,  but  I  would  be  glad  to  get  from 
you  cartridges  and  some  forage.  Will  not  the  condemned  forage  answer 
for  our  oxen  ? 

On  arriving  at  Montgomery's  the  whole  force  will  be  applied  to  es 
tablishing  the  post,  and  some  thirty  three-yoke  ox  teams  be  despatched 
t6  Steilacoom  to  carry  the  supplies  and  forage  now  at  Steilacoom.  My 
weekly  expresses  from  the  Indian  reservations  reached  here  Thursday  eve 
ning.  There  is  great  danger  of  a  large  force  of  northern  Indians  making 
an  attack  on  the  settlements  down  the  Sound,  and  I  have  urged  Captain 
Gansevoort,  after  the  Active  has  landed  the  troops  and  supplies  at  the 
month. of  the  Snohomish  river,  to  keep  her  cruising  all  the  time  between 
Port  Townsend,  Bcllingham.  Bay,  and  Seattle. 

The  information  comes  from  a  pretty  reliable  source  that  the  north 
ern  Indians  intend  coining  upon  the  settlements  of  the  Sound  with  a  force 
of  sixteen  war  cauoes.  My  express  leaves  to-day  for  all  the  posts  on  the 
Sound,  and  I  have  directed  them  to  stand  firm  and  keep  a  sharp  lookout. 
I  make  no  change  in  the  Siiohomish  expedition,  it  will  go  on.  A  rein 
forcement  of  twenty-five  men,  (Indians)  have  gone  to  Pat  Kanim. 

This  letter  will  be  taken  to  you  by  Goudy.  If  you  agree  with  me 
that  the  Active  should  cruise  down  the  Sound  write  a  letter  to  Ganse- 
voort  to  that  effect.  Goudy  will  take  it  to  Steilacoom  and  hand  it  to  my 
express  man. 

I  am,  very  truly, 

Your  obedient  servant,  « 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Governor  and  Superintendent  Indian  Affairs. 


P.  S. — I  have  also  written  Governor  Douglass  at  Vancouver's  Isl 
and,  advising  him  of  the  contemplated  expedition  of  the  northern  Indi 
ans,  (mostly  within  his  jurisdiction)  and  have  requested  him  to  keep  one 
of  the  Hudson  Bay  steamers  cruising  in  the  vicinity,  and  to  advise  me 
promptly  of  their  movements. 

(Signed,)  J.  I.  S, 


* 


198 
[No.  123.] 

Fort  Steilacoom,  Feb.  17,   1855. 


QUARTERS  PUGET  SOUND  DISTRICT,    ) 


To  His  Excellency,  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  of  Washington  : 

SIR  : — Yours  of  to-day's  date  is  just  at  hand.  I  am  pleased  that 
you  are  to  make  so  speedy  a  movement,  and  trust  you  may  succeed  in 
your  operations. 

I  have  directed  that  a  note  be  addressed  to  Capt.  Gansevoort,  en 
dorsing  your  views.  I  am  glad  that  you  have  not  suspended  your  move 
ments  on  the  Snohomish. 

On  Thursday  I  shall  move  another  company  into  the  field  in  advance 
of  the  Puyallup,  and,  on  the  25th  inst.,  shall  take  the  field  myself.  I 
have  not  a  large  supply  of  ammunition,  but  will  try  to  let  you  have  one 
box  of  musket  cartridges,  (1000.) 

I  have  directed  the   Quartermaster  to  dispose  of  the  damaged  for 
age  by  sale.     You  may  procure  more  of  it  from  second  hands. 
I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

SILAS  CASEY, 
Lt.  Col.  Com.  Puget  Sound  District. 


[No.  124.] 

EXECUT 

Olympia,  Feb.  18th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASHINGTON,      | 


Lieut.  COL.  CASEY, 

Com.  Puget  Sound  Dist.,  Fort  Steilacoom,  W.  T.: 

DEAR  SIR  : — I  have  this  day  issued  instructions  to  Capt.  Riley  to 
occupy  Lone  Tree  Point,  and  to  maintain  it  at  all  hazards. 

I  trust  he  will  be  there  on  Thursday.  My  quartermaster,  Captain 
Gove,  will  furnish  him  with  the  necessary  supplies. 

Capt.  Biley's  force  is  subject  to  my  orders  to  march  to  any  point,  or 
to  Kb  sent  on  any  duty  I  may  deem  necessary  to  the  general  defence  o1 


199 

the  territory.  I  have  disbanded  all  companies  for  local  defence,  and 
have  accepted,  and  shall  accept  the  services  of  none,  except  for  the  gen 
eral  defence  of  the  territory. 

Yery  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
f  Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEYENS, 

Governor  and  Superintendent. 


[No.  125.] 

OFFICE 

Olympia,  March  2d,  1856. 

COMMANDING  OFFICER, 


CFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  Y.,    ) 


Fort  Steilacoom  ; 

SIR  : — Information  has  just  been  received  that  the  enemy  are  infest 
ing  the  country  near  Nathan  Eaton's. 

Mr.  William  White  was  shot  from  his  waggon  as  he  returned  from 
church  this  afternoon,  at  5  P.  M.  There  were  two  women  in  the  waggon, 
who  escaped  by  the  horses  running  away.  These  women  report  several 
Indians  as  having  fired. 

Also,  a  waggoner  named  Northcraft,  has  been  missing  for  eight 
days.  His  waggon  was  found  to-day.  The  oats  which  he  was  taking 
from  Mound  prairie  to  the  Yelm,  were  found  in  the  waggon,  or  on  the 
ground,  and  the  bags  and  oxen,  with  the  man  gone  ;  he  was  doubtless 
killed. 

The  Governor  desires  me  to  request  you  to  send  thirty  men  to  the 
Yelm  to  assist  in  scouring  the  country  hi  the  vicinity. 

All  the  men  left  here  fit  for  duty  will  march  towards  the  Yelm  to 
morrow,  relying  upon  your  co-operation. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adj't.  Gen.  W.  T.  Y. 
By  order  of  the  GOVERNOR, 

and  Commander-in-Chief  W.  T.  Y. 


200 

[No.  126.] 

FORT  STEILACOOM,  W.  T.,  ) 

March  3d,    1856.         j 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adj't.  Gen.  W.  T.  Volunteers,  Olympia : 

SIR  : — Your  letter  of  the  2d  inst.,  is  at  hand.  I  regret  very  much 
that  I  am  unable  to  accede  to  your  request,  for  men  to  be  sent  from  this 
post  to  the  vicinity  of  the  Yelm. 

The  force  at  this  post  just  now,  is  thirty-one  men  for  duty,  out  of 
which  I  have  to  send  a  party  of  ten  to  escort  a  tram  of  provisions  to  the 
Puyallup,  to-day. 

I  am  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Yout  most  obedient  servant, 

JOHN  NUGEN, 
Lt.  4th  Inf.  Com.  Post. 


[No.  121] 

Fort  Steilacoom,  W.  T.,  March  15,  1856. 
GOVERNOR  I.  I.  STEVENS, 


HEAD   QUARTERS,  PUGET  SOUND  DISTRICT,    ) 


Olympia,  W.  T.: 

SIR  — I  respectfully  request  that  you  will  at  once  issue  your  procla 
mation  calling  into  the  service  of  the  United  States  two  companies  of 
volunteers  to  serve  on  foot,  for  the  period  of  four  months,  unless  sooner 
discharged.  Each  company  to  consist  of  one  captain,  one  first  and  one 
second  lieutenant,  four  Serjeants,  four  corporals,  and  seventy  privates. 

I  wish  both  companies  to  be  mustered  into  service  at  Fort  Steila 
coom. 

The  authority  for  calling  for  the  above  named  troops,  bas  been  given 
by  the  General  commanding  the  department  of  the  Pacific.- 

I  received  yesterday  an  accession  of  two  companies  of  the  9th  in 
fantry.  With  this  accession  of  force,  and  the  two  companies  of  volun- 


201 

teers  called  for,  I  am  of  the  opinion  that  I  shall  have  a  sufficient  number 
of  troops  to  protect  this  frontier  without  the  aid  of  those  now  in  the 
service  of  the  territory. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  SILAS  CASEY, 

Lieut.  Col.  9th  Inf.,  Com.  Puget  Sound  District. 


[No.  128.] 

EXECUTTV: 

OLYMPIA,  March  16th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 


LIEUT.  COL.  CASEY, 

9th  In.  Com.  Puget  Sound  Dist.,  Ft.  Steilacoom,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — I  have  received  your  letter  of  the  15th  instant,  advising  me 
of  accession  to  your  command  of  two  companies  of  regulars,  and  request 
ing  me  to  issue  my  proclamation  calling  into  the  service  of  the  United 
States  two  companies  of  volunteers  to  serve  on  foot,  for  the  period  of 
four  months,  unless  sooner  discharged.  These  companies  you  wish  to  be 
mustered  into  the  service  at  Fort  Steilacoom. 

You  also  express  the  opinion  that  if  this  requisition  be  complied 
with,  that  you  will  have  a  sufficient  number  of  troops  to  protect  this 
frontier  without  the  aid  of  those  now  in  the  service  of  the  territory. 

I  am  also  advised  that  you  have  been  authorised  to  make  this  requi 
sition  for  troops  by  the  general  commanding  the  department  of  the  Pa- 
chic. 

You  have  been  informed  by  me  not  only  of  the  volunteer  force 
which  had  been  called  out  to  protect  the  settlements,  and  to  wage  war 
upon  the  Indians,  but  of  the  plan  of  campaign  which  I  have  adopted,  of 
the  positions  which  these  troops  occupy,  and  of  the  blows  alre^ly  struck 
by  them  against  the  enemy.  I  take  it  for  granted  that  this  information 
has  been  communicated  to  Gen.  Wool,  and  has  been  considered  by  him 
in  his  official  action. 

In  the  two  visits  which  I   have  made  to   Steilacoom  to  confer  with 

you,  one  of  them  made  at  great  personal  inconvenience,  I  have  waived 
26 


202 

etiquette  iri  my  anxious  desire  to  co-operate  with  the  regular  service.  I 
have  communicated  unreservedly  my  plans  and  views  and  have  endeav 
ored,  so  far  as  my  operations  were  concerned,  to  conduct  affairs  in  a  way 
to  insure  the  whole  force  operating  as  a  unit  in  the  prosecution  of  the 
war. 

I  am  happy  to  say,  that  in  our  several  interviews  and  communications, 
you  have  met  me  in  the  same  spirit  of  co-operation  to  the  extent  that  the 
impression  has  been  made  upon  my  mind,  that  such  disposition  had  been 
made  of  the  volunteers  in  your  opinion,  as  to. make  them  an  efficient  ele 
ment  in  the  general  combination. 

JSTow  your  requisition  on  me  to  issue  my  proclamation  to  call  into 
the  service  of  the  United  States  two  companies  of  volunteeers,  in  con 
nection  with  the  expression  of  your  opinion,  that  if  the  call  were  com 
plied  with,  the  services  of  the  troops  now  in  the  service  of  the  territory 
may  be  dispensed  with,  is,  in  fact,  a  call  upon  me  to  withdraw  all  the 
troops  now  in  the  field,  with  their  sixty  to  eighty  days'  provisions,  to  aban 
don  the  block  houses,  to  leave  the  settlements  both  north  and  south  open 
to  attacks  of  the  marauding  Indians,  and,  at  the  very  moment  when  our 
troops  are  prepared  to  strike  a,  and  perhaps  the,  decisive  blow,  to  aban 
don  the  campaign,  and  reorganize  anew. 

Are  you  aware  that  in  the  patriotic  response  of.  the  citizens  of  this 
territory  to  the  call  of  the  executive,  over  one  half  of  our  able-bodied 
men  are  bearing  arms,  that  the  people  are  almost  entirely  living  in  block 
houses,  and  that  it  is  entirely  beyond  the  ability  of  our  citizens  to  organ 
ize  an  additional  company  of  even  fifty  men  ? 

The  two  companies  you  call  for  can,  therefore,  not  be  raised  except 
by  the  withdrawal  of  the  troops,  and  abandoning  the  campaign  at  the 
very  moment  when  the  prospects  are  flattering  to  end  the  war. 

For  the  reasons  above  it  will  be  impossible  to  comply  with  your  re 
quisition.  Nor  can  I  suppose  that  in  making  the  requisition,  either  Maj. 
Gen.  Wool  or  yourself,  believed  for  a  moment  that  the  requisition  would 
be  seriously  entertained  by  me. 

But  I  am  of  opinion  that  even  were  the  requisition  complied  with, 
your  force  would  not  be  adequate  to  the  protection  of  the  frontier  and 
the  settlements.  Having  the  highest  respect  for  your  opinion,  knowing 
how  cautiously  and  carefully  you  approach  any  field  of  labor,  and  how 
thorough^  you  investigate  it,  and  reach  your  conclusions,  I  am  con 
strained  to  express  my  judgment  that  you  would  soon  be  obliged  to  call 
for  an  additional  force  fully  equal  in  all,  to  the  force  which  has  been 
called  out  by  my  previous  proclamations. 

In  such  a  case,  I  have  no  other  alternative  than  to  act  according  to 
my  deliberate  judgment.  For,  if  waiving  my  own  judgment  to  yours,  in- 


jury  should  result,  the  responsibility  would  attach  to  me  no  less  than  to 
yourself. 

Otherwise,  why  is  the  militia  organized,  and  the  executive  made  its 
Commander-in-chief  ?  It  is  to  meet  emergencies  like  the  present  ? 

But  were  it  practicable  to  comply  with  your  requisition,  and  were 
these  requisitions  in  my  judgment  competent,  I  should  not  deem  it  expe 
dient  to  place  the  force  thus  raised,  under  the  command  of  the  officers  of 
the  regular  service. 

The  war  has  now  gone  five  months.  It  is  a  war  emphatically  for  the 
defence  of  the  settlements.  So  much  so,  that  I  have  ordered  to  the 
Sound  four  companies  from  the  Columbia  river,  and  at  this  critical  period 
it  is  important  that  there  should  be  no  changes  in  the  command,  or  in 
plan.  In  view  of  this,  and  also,  in  view  of  the  changes  of  opinion  and 
of  plan,  on  the  part  of  the  officer  in  chief  command  on  this  coast,  grow 
ing  out  of  a  want  of  proper  understanding  of  the  difficulties  to  be  en 
countered,  I  am  of  opinion  that  the  whole  force  will  be  more  efficient, 
and  that  there  will  be  a  better  spirit  of  co-operation,  if  the  regular  and 
volunteer  services  are  kept  distinct.  Be  this  as  it  may,  the  campaign  is, 
I  trust,  approaching  its  consummation,  and  changes  of  plan  can  only  be 
fraught  with  mischief. 

The  citizens  of  this  territory  have  very  great  confidence  in  the  officers 
of  the  regular  service,  and  especially  is  this  the  case  with  the  people  of 
the  Sound.  These  relations  have  been  more  than  cordial ;  these  are  the 
witnesses  of  the  efficiency  of  the  troops  stationed  here,  and  their  grati 
tude  has  been  announced  on  several  occasions  since  the  organization  of 
the  territory. 

The  force  now  in  the  field  has  not  been  mustered  into  the  service  of 
the  territory,  but  into  the  service  of  the  United  States.  My  authority, 
as  the  highest  federal  officer  of  the  territory,  is  derived  from  the  same 
source  as  that  of  the  Major  General  commanding  the  Pacific  division.  I 
am  commissioned  by  the  President,  and  I  act  under  authority  of  the  laws 
of  congress,  and  the  responsibilities  of  my  oath  of  office. 

For  these  reasons,  your  requisitions  cannot  be  complied  with,  at  the 
same  time,  you  may  rest  assured  of  my  doing  every  thing  in  my  power  to 
co-operate  with  you,  and  I  hope  that,  through  the  action  of  us  all,  the 
war  may  soon  be  closed,  and  the  suffering  inhabitants  of  the  territory 
may  be  rescued  from  their  present  unhappy  condition. 
With  great  respect,  I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Cominander-in-Chief  W.  T.  V. 


204 

[No.  129.] 

EXECUTIVE  0 

Olympia,  April  15,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,      ) 

I 


Lieut.  Col.  SILAS  CASEY, 

9th  Inf.  Com.  P.  S.  District,  Fort  Steilacoom,  W.  T.: 
SIR  : — Orders  have  been  sent  to  Major  Yan  Bocklin,  commanding 
the  northern  battalion,  2d  regiment  W.  T.  volunteers,  to  evacuate  the 
post  at  Porter's  prairie  upon  its  occupation  by  Major  Garnett. 

Also,  Major  Yan  Bocklin  has  been  instructed  to  offer  the  forts 
"Pike  and  Posey"  to  your  officers,  that  he  may  make  a  scout  with  his 
whole  forco  towards  the  Nachess  pass,  to  search  for  the  enemy  in  that  di 
rection,  and  verify  the  depth  of  snow  in  the  Nachess  pass. 

After  his  return  he  is  ordered  to  march  to  the  Snoqualmie  pass,  and 
concentrate  his  battalion  at  that  point.  I  propose,  sL',  to  confine  the  op 
erations  of  the  Washington  Territory  forces  to  the  lines  of  the  Snoho- 
mish  and  Nesqually,  and  consider  the  force  under  my  command  as  amply 
adequate  for  the  Nachess  or  White  river  line.  If  you  concur  in  these 
views  do  me  the  favor  to  issue  orders  to  that  effect,  to  your  officers  to 
take  possession  of  the  posts  at  Porters  and  also  "Pike  and  Posey." 
I  would  be  very  glad  to  hear  from  you. 

With  great  respect,  I  have  the  honor  to  be, 
Your  obedient  servant, 

ISAAC  I.  STEYENS, 
Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief  W.  T.  Y. 


[  No.  130.  ] 

Fort  Steilacoom,  April  15th,  1856. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  PUGET  SOUND  DISTRICT,    ) 


Gov.  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Olympia,  W.  T.: 

GOVERNOR  : — Yours  of  to-day's  date  is  just  received,  and  in  reply, 
I  would  say  that  Major  Garnet  has  orders  to  occupy  Porter's  prairie,  and 
if  he  has  not  already  done  so,  he  will,  as  soon  as  his  troops  return  from 


205     * 

a  combined  scout  which  I  have   ordered  in  the  direction  of  the  Meridian 
prairie,  the  Dewamsh  lake,  and  the  prairies  beyond  the  Cedar  river. 

It  is  wy  intention  to  watch  the  Nachess  pass   pretty  closely,  and  I 
think  your  plan  of  occupying  the  Snoqualmie  pass  a  very  good  one. 
Would  it  not  be  well  to  watch  the  Cowlitz  pass  also  ? 
With  regard  to  forts  "  Pike  and  Posey,"  not  knowing  their  locality, 
I  cannot  answer  your  enquiries  with  regard  to  them. 

I  am,  sir,  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  SILAS  CASEY, 

Lieut.  Col.  9th  In.,  Com.  P.  S.  District. 


[No.  131.] 

EXECUTIVE 

Olympia,  April  21st,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,      ) 


Lieut.  Col.  SILAS  CASEY, 

Commanding  Puget  Sound  District  : 

i 

SIR  : — Your  letter  of  the  15th  has  been  received.  The  Lewis  county 
company  are  watching  the  Cowlitz  river  pass,  and  I  am  intending  to  asso 
ciate  with  them  Indian  auxiliaries  from  the  Cowlitz  and  Chehalis  tribes. 

I  learned  last  evening  that  your  troops  found  an  Indian  hospital  on 
the  Puyallup,  in  which  were  twenty-five  Indians  too  badly  wounded  to  be 
moved,  and  who  must  die.  Were  they  the  wounded  of  the  recent  opera 
tions,  or  the  wounded  from  the  beginning  of  the  war  ?  I  have  supposed 
they  were  the  wounded  of  the  last  operations,  and  perhaps  not  all  the 
wounded  at  that.  I  hope  your  troops  will  have  a  good  scout  in  the  neigh 
borhood  of  the  lakes.  Lt.  Col.  Lander  will  co-operate  with  your  forces, 
and  with  good  fortune,  I  trust  the  country  in  that  direction  will  be 
swept. 

I  am  sir,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief  W.  T.  V. 


206 

[No.  132.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  W.  T.,      ) 
May  28th,  1856.  j 

Lieut.  Col.  SILAS  CASEY, 

Commanding  Puget  Sound  District : 

SIR  : — Lieut.  Col.  Shaw  will  deliver  this  letter,  and  explain  more 
fully  my  views  in  regard  to  a  proposed  operation  of  the  regular  and  volun 
teer  troops.  Instead  of  your  sending  two  companies  to  the  reinforcement 
of  Col.  Wright  by  way  of  the  Cascades  and  Columbia,  I  would  suggest 
your  sending  three  companies  to  the  Nachess,  retaining  one  at  or  near 
the  pass,  and  advancing  the  others  into  the  Yakima  country. 

At  the  same  time,  I  will  put  my  whole  mounted  force  through  the 
Snoqualmie  pass,  and  down  the  main  Yakima. 

The  Northern  battalion  shall  occupy  posts  on  the  line  of  the  Sno 
qualmie,  from  the  falls  to  the  eastern  slope.  A  depot  shall  be  established 
on  the  eastern  slope  ;  all  the  horsemen  will  then  be  available  to  strike 
and  pursue  the  enemy. 

The  remaining  force  at  the  head  of  the  Sound  will  be  about  one 
hundred  strong.  I  would  be  glad  to  make  an  arrangement  in  the  event 
that  the  movement  over  the  mountains  go  on,  to  transfer  to  you  the  posts 
on  the  Puyallup,  on  ConnelFs  and  South  prairies. 

I  am,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  PUGET  SOUND  DISTRICT,          ) 

>•      I 


[No.  133.] 

HEAD  Q 

Fort  Steilacoom,  May  28th,  1855. 

Gov.  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Olympia,  W.  T.: 

GOVERNOR  : — Your  communication  of  to-day's  date  has  been  recei 
ved.     I  feel  much  obliged  to  you  for  forwarding  my  communication  from 


207 

Vancouver.  I  have  not  seen  Col.  Shaw  as  yet.  Major  Garnet,  with 
two  companies,  left  here  this  morning  for  the  purpose  of  joining  Col. 
Wright  via  the  Cowlitz  Landing. 

I  did  not  send  him  across  the  Nachess  pass,  for  the  reason  :  First, 
I  consider  there  would  be  much  delay  in  getting  across.  In  the  next  place, 
I  had  not  sufficient  transportation  to  spare  for  that  purpose. 

I  have  one  company  watching  the  road  which  leads  across  the  Na 
chess  pass.  My  accounts  from  the  other  side  are  that  Col.  Wright  was 
conferring  with  the  Indians.  Owhi,  Teias  and  Stock  Whitley  had  been 
to  his  camp. 

Lieut.  Van  Voast,   disguised  as  a  packer,  had   been  to  the  Indian 
camp.     Should  the  Indians  agree  to  terms,  peace  will  probably  be  made  ; 
if  not,  when  Col.  Steptoe  joins  ne  will  attack  them. 
I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  SILAS  CASEY, 

Lieut.  Col.  9th  In.  Com.  P.  S.  District. 


[No.  134.] 

EXECI 

OLYMPIA,  W.  T.,  June  2d,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,  ) 


Lieut.  Col.  SILAS  CASEY, 

Com.  P.  S.  District,  Fort  Steilacoom,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — I  propose  to  turn  over  to  you  the  posts  at  the  wagon  road 
crossing  of  the  Puyallup,  on  ConnelPs  and  South  Prairies.  The  post  on 
ConnelPs  prairie,  in  view  of  the  relations  to  it  of  the  posts  on  the  Muck- 
leshoot,  Porter's  and  South  prairies,  is  probably  unsurpassed. 

The  expedition  I  am  about  moving  across  the  Cascades  by  the  Sno- 
qualmie  pass  will  leave  only  about  one  hundred  men,  not  all  effectives,  for 
the  defence  of  the  line  from  Montgomerie's  to  the  Skookum  Chuck.  I 
am  of  opinion  that  it  will  not  do  to  disgarnish  any  portion  of  the  line  till 
the  Indians  have  been  struck  east  of  the  Cascades,  and  been  driven  to 
wards  the  interior. 


The  company  of  volunteers  at  the  Cowlitz  are  establishing  a  post  OP 
the  Clickatat  Prairie,  some  distance  above  the  Landing,  and  ar.e  opening 
a  trail  thereto. 

Captain  Pierre  Charles,  with  ten  Indians,  is  now  scouting  still  higher 
up  the  Cowlitz  ;  he  has  brought  to  the  reservation  at  Plomondeau's  one 
party  of  seven  Indians.  I  am  daily  expecting  to  hear  that  he  has  brought 
in  a  second  party  of  four  Indians. 

Will  you  send  me  word  as  to  the  posts  by  return  of  the  express. 
Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed,;  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief  W.  T, 


[No.  135.] 

EXECUTI 

May  28th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA, 


Lieut.  Col.  SILAS  CASEY, 

Commanding  Puget  Sound  District : 

SIR  : — I  send  you  some  letters  brought  by  my  express  yesterday. 
Will  you  send  me  word  by  the  express  your  views  as  to  the  suggestions 
made  in  my  letter  of  the  date  sent  by  the  hands  of  Col.  Shaw. 

I  have  little  or  no  doubt  that  it  will  be  practicable  to  push  wagons 
from  camp  Montgomery  to  Rattle  Snake  prairie,  (Cedar  creek)  and  thence 
over  the  Snoqualmie  pass  to  a  prairie  on  the  Yakima,  suitable  for  a  depot 
post. 

I  shall  send  a  statf  officer  immediately  over  the  route  to  verify  the 
information  I  have  received,  and  in  case  of  its  practicability  to  give 
the  necessary  directions  for  putting  parties  at  wojk  to  open  the  road. 
Six  days  since  there  was  snow  on  the  Snoqualmie  pass  for  only  three 
miles,  and  the  greatest  depth  was  four  feet. 
I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


209 

No.  136. 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  PUGET  SOUND  DISTRICT,  ) 
FORT  STEILACOOM,  June  1,  1856.      j 

SIR  : — Tour  communication  of  yesterday  has  been  received.  In  re 
ply,  I  am  directed  by  Lieut.  Col.  Casey  to  say,  that  as  matters  now 
stand,  he  is  of  the  opinion  that  he  has  regular  troops  enough  to  give  pro 
tection  to  the  inhabitants  of  this  portion  of  the  Territory,  and  he  is  ready 
to  occupy  with  the  United  States  troops  the  following  positions  now  occu 
pied  by  the  volunteers,  viz  :  "  Council's  prairie,"  the  block-house  at  the 
point  the  military  road  crosses  the  Puyallup  river,  "Montgomery's,"  and 
the  block-house  on  the  Yelm,  as  soon  as  you  may  see  fit  to  vacate  said 
positions. 

I  am,  sir, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

JOHN  NUGEN, 

2d  Lieut.  4th  Infantry,  A.  A.  A. 
Lieut.  Col.  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Commanding  Right  Wing,  W.  T.  V. 


* 


No.  137, 

EXECUTIVE  0 

Olympia,  June  3d,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,  ] 


Lieut.  Col.  SILAS  CASEY, 

.  Commanding  Puget  Sound  District,  Fort  Steilacoom,  W.  T. : 

SIR  : — I  have  read  your  letter  of  yesterday  acceding  to  my  proposi 
tion  in  regard  to  turning  over  to  you  the  posts  on  the  Puyallup  and  Con- 
nell's  prairie,  and  also  proposing  to  relieve  me  of  the  post  at  Montgomery's 
and  the  Yelm. 

Orders  have  been  given  to  Lieut.  Col.  Shaw  to  make  the  necessary 
arrangements  to  turn  over  the  first  named  posts,  as  also  the  post  on  South 
prairie. 

In  reference  to  Montgomery's  and  the  Yelm,  I  hope  soon  to  be  able 
to  make  the  arrangements  to  turn  them  over  to  you.     I  am  still  of  the 
opinion  that  the  next   four  weeks  will  be  a  very  critical   period  on  the 
81 


210 


,  and  that  it  will  not  be  safe  to  disband  any  of  the  troops  in  the 
field  till  the  operations  in  the  Yakinia  country  shall  have  resulted  in 
heading  the  enemy  and  driving  him  into  the  interior.  The  recent  wanton 
murders  at  Steilacoom  and  on  White  river,  have  excited  the  friendly  In 
dians,  and  if  repeated,  may  urge  them  to  hostility.  Every  exertion  shall 
be  used  by  me  to  prevent  their  recurrence,  and  at  all  events  to  bring  of 
fenders  to  justice.  I  am  anxious  for  the  time  to  arrive  when  the  safety  to 
the  settlements,  I  shall  feel  authorized  to  disband  a  part  or  the  whole  of 
the  volunteers,  and  I  will  make  arrangments  to  turn  over  to  you  both  the 
posts,  at  Montgomery's  and  the  Yelm,  as  soon  as  it  is  ascertained  that  no 
large  party  of  the  enemy  will  cross  the  mountains  to  commence  the  war 
anew. 

It  is  probable  that  at  all  events,  Montgomery's  may  be  turned  over 
and  the  stores  moved  to  the  Yelrn  in  a  short  time. 

Truly  your  obedient  servant, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


Ho.  138. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  PUGET  SOUND  DISTRICT,  ) 
Fort  Steilacoom,  Oct.  20th,  1856.      ) 


GOVERNOR  : — For  several  weeks,  past  there  has  been  more  than  one 
hundred  Indians,  including  women  and  children,  encamped  near  this  post. 
Your  agents  have  taken  no  charge  of  them,  and  I  understand,  decline  so' 
doing.  I  sent  them  to  the  reservation  soon  after  they  came  in,  and  was 
informed  by  Mr.  Ford,  your  agent,  several  days  after,  that  he  had  taken; 
no  charge  of  them,  and  did  not  intend  doing  so.  I  received  them  again 
in  order  to  prevent  any  disturbance  that  might  ensue  from  the  strange 
conduct  of  your  agents. 

In  consequence  of  this,  I  have  considered  that  the  public  tranquility 
required  that  I  should  ration  them,  and  I  have-  since  then,  done  accor 
dingly.  Inasmuch  as  hostilities  have  ceased  in  this  district,  I  do  not  con 
sider  that  it  is  my  provence  to  take  care  of  these  Indians,  and  I  respect 
fully  request  that  you  will  relieve  me  from  the  responsibility. 

Permit  me  to  say,  that  I  am  fully  of  the  opinion  that  if  the  Indians 


211 

of  the  Sound  are  treated  with  kindness  and  justice,  and  lawless  men  res 
trained  from  violence  towards  them,  there  will  be  no  danger  of  any  out 
break  on  their  part. 

In  conclusion,  I  would  remark,  that  I  sincerely  desire  the  prosperity 
and  happiness  of  the  people  on  the  Sound,  and  I  am  confident  that  they 
will  be  the  recipients  of  these  blessings  only  so  far  as  they  shall  prove 
themselves  a  law  abiding,  just,  and  forbearing  people. 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant,  * 

SILAS  CASEY, 

Lieut.  Col.  9th  In.,  Com.  P.  S.  District. 
His  Excellency  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Washington  Territory  and  Sup.  Ind.  Affairs. 


[  No.  139.  ] 

EXECUTIVE 

Olympia,  Oct.  20th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 


Lieut.  Col.  SILAS  CASEY, 

Commanding  Puget  Sound  District,  Fort  Steilacooni : 

SIR  : — I  have  received  your  letter  of  this  date  requesting  me  to  take 
charge  of  the  Indians,  more  than  one  hundred  in  number,  Encamped  near 
your  post,  and  stating  that  you  had  received  them  when  sent  back  from 
the  reservation,  in  order  to  prevent  any  disturbance  that  might  ensue  from 
the  strange  conduct  of  my  agent.  Capt.  Ford  has  in  this  matter  acted 
under  the  instructions  of  the  general  agent,  Col.  Simmons,  who,  I  am  in 
formed  notified  you  that  the  Indians  would  not  be  received,  previous  to 
your  sending  them  to  the  reservation. 

Although  hostilities  have  for  the  present  ceased  on  the  Sound,  yet  in 
my  judgment, "the  Indians  at  your  post,  most  of  whom  have  come  from  the 
east  side  of  the  mountains,  are  not  in  that  condition  of  submission,  which 
makes  it  safe  to  incorporate  them  with  the  friendly  Indians  ;  nor  will  they 
be  in  that  condition  till  the  known  murderers  of  that  band  are  arrested 
for  trial.  If  these  murderers  of  that  band  are  not  apprehended  and  tried 
and  punished  if  convicted,  we  shall  be  at  all  times  exposed  to  a  renewal 
of  the  war,  and  its  scenes  of  death  and  devastations.  These  Indians  at 
your  post  during  the  short  time  that  they  were  at  the  reservation  endeav- 


212 

ored  to  create  disaffection  among  the  friendly  Indians,  which  is  not  to  be 
wondered  at,  as  Stahi  and  other  known  murderers  were  sent  to  that  res 
ervation.  I  have  therefore  to  request  your  aid  to  assist  me  in  apprehend 
ing  Leschi,  Quiemuth,  Kitsap,  Stahi,  Nelson,  and  other  murderers,  and  to 
keep  them  in  custody,  awaiting  a  warrant  from  the  nearest  magistrate, 
which  being  accomplished,  I  will  receive  the  remainder,  presuming,  how 
ever,  that  I  will  provide  for  them  in  the  neighborhood  of  your  post  till 
the  return  of  Col.  Simmons.  In  regard  to  Leschi,  I  will  state  that  from 
recent  information  in  my  possession,  I  am  almost  certain  that  he  is  endea 
voring  to  raise  a  force  to  prosecute  the  war  anew. 

The  Indians  under  Kitsap  and  Nelson,  have  a  camp,  it  is  said,  on 
Green  river,  where,  not  only  have  they  arms  and  ammunition,  but  the 
arms  and  ammunition  of  those  who  are  at  your  post. 

Leschi  is  here  for  no  other  purpose,  in  my  judgment,  than  to  renew 
the  war,  and  what  has  recently  occurred  in  the  Walla  Walla  valley, 
should  admonish  men  upon  whose  shoulders  rests  the  responsibility  of  the 
management  of  affairs,  not  to  feel  too  secure. 

Yet  I  have  learned  since  my  return,  that  Leschi,  within  a  few  days, 
has  been  at  Nesqually,  and  that  Dr.  Tolmie  'had  communicated  the  fact 
to  you,  yet  no  efforts  were  made  to  arrest  him,  not  even  to  the  extent  of 
sending  me  the  information. 

In  conclusion,  I  have  to  state  that  I  do  not  believe  any  country  or 
any  age  has  afforded  an  example  of  the  kindness  and  justice  which  has 
been  shown  towards  the  Indians  by  the  suffering  inhabitants  of  the 
Sound  during  the  recent  troubles.  They  have,  in  spite  of  the  few  cases 
of  murder  which  have  occurred,  showed  themselves  eminently  a  law  abi 
ding,  a  just  and  a  forbearing  people.  They  desire  the  murderers  of  In 
dians  to  be  punished,  but  they  complain,  and  they  have  a  right  to  com 
plain,  if  Indians,  whose  hands  are  steeped  in  the  blood  of  the  innocent, 
should  go  un whipped  of  justice. 

J  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Cornmande-in-Cljief. 


213 

{No.  140.] 

HE 

FORT  STEILACOOM,  Oct.  21,  1856. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  PUGET  SOUND  DISTRICT,    ) 


His  Excellency,  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Sup.  Ind.  Affairs,  Olympia,  W.  T.: 

GOVERNOR  : — Yours  of  the  20th  inst.,  has  just  been  received.  I  de 
sire  in  the  first  place,  to  correct  one  piece  of  information  which  you  have 
received.  You  state  that  you  have  been  informed  that  Col.  Simmons, 
your  agent,  had  notified  me  previously  that  the  Indians  would  not  be  re 
ceived  on  the  reservation.  I  received  no  such  notification  from  Col.  Sim 
mons,  and  the  first  information  that  I  had  of  any  unwillingness  to  take 
them  was  from  Mr.  Ford,  several  days  after  they  had  been  sent  out.  I 
can  see  no  reason  for  changing  the  opinion  with  regard  to  Indian  matters 
which  I  had  the  honor  to  communicate  to  you  hi  my  letter  of  yesterday. 
The  Indians  on  the  Sound,  there  is  no  doubt,  can,  by  neglect  and  ill 
usage,  be  driven  to  desperation. 

Those  whom  you  wish  my  assistance  to  take,  are  some  of  those  who 
were  driven  from  this  district  across  the  Cascade  mountains.  They  deliv 
ered  themselves  up  to  Col.  Wright,  when  in  the  Yakima  country — made 
their  peace  with  him,  and  were  promised  protection.  Col.  Wright  in 
formed  me  of  these  facts,  and  although  it  might  be  said  that  command 
ing  an  independent  district,  I  was  not  bound  by  his  acts,  still  it  would  be 
bad  policy,  if  not  bad  faith,  to  pursue  a  different  course  towards  these  In 
dians,  not  being  able  to  understand  the  difference — would  look  upon  it  as 
a  breach  of  faith. 

Now,  with  due  deference  to  you,  sir,  I  would  suggest  that  the  bet 
ter  way  would  be  to  consider  that  we  have  been  at  war  with  these  Indi 
ans,  and  now  we  are  at  peace. 

To  be  sure,  they  have  killed  some  of  the  people,  but  that  is  incident 
to  war.  Most  of  those  who  have  committed  murder  have  been  killed, 
and  the  Indians  have  suffered  much. 

You  say  that  some  of  the  Indians  who  killed  whites  are  still  at  large. 
It  may  be  so,  but  are  there  not  whites  at  large  who  have  wantonly  mur 
dered  innocent  Indians  in  this  district? 

For  the  reasons  above  mentioned,  I  cannot  assist  in  arresting  the 
men  who  you  have  named,  but  will  submit  the  matter  to  the  General  com 
manding  the  department  of  the  Pacific,  and  be  governed  by  his  orders  in 
the  premises. 

Although  I  do  not  consider  that  I  can  assist  in  taking  the  Indians 
you  named,  unless  they  re-commence  the  war,  still,  from  my  regard  for 
the  civil  authority,  I  will,  as  I  informed  Judge  Chambers  and  others,  re- 


ceive  for  safe  keeping  any  Indians  whom,  by  due  process  of  law,  they  may 
commit. 

I  presume  you  were  not  informed  that  Leschi  had  seen  Dr.  Tolmie, 
from  the  fact  that  you  were  on  the  Columbia  river. 
Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

SILAS  CASEY, 
Lt.  Col.  9th  In.  Com.  Puget  Sound  District. 


[No.  141] 

EXECUTIVE 

OLYMPIA,   Oct.  27th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITOKY,  ) 


Lieut.  Col.  S.  CASEY, 

Commanding  Puget  Sound  District: 

SIR  : — Your  letter  of  the  21st,  came  to  my  hands  this  evening. 

In  regard  to  the  protection  promised  the  Indians,  in  arresting  whom 
I  have  asked  your  assistance,  I  have  the  statement  to  me  by  Col.  Wright, 
that  he  had  made  no  terms  with  them,  and  had  guaranteed  to  them  no 
immunity  from  trial  and  punishment.  This  statement  was  made  to  me 
repeatedly  by  Col.  Wright,  and  in  the  presence  of  witnesses,  one  of  whom 
is  Mr.  Secretary,  and  late  acting  Governor  Mason.  On  the  contrary,  I 
have  twice,  in  writing,  made  requisition  on  Col.  Wright  for  the  delivery 
to  me,  in  order  that  they  might  be  brought  within  reach  of  the  civil  au 
thorities,  of  Leschi,  Quiemuth,  Kitsap,  Stahi,  and  Nelson,  a  requisition 
which  he  has  not  pretended  to  disregard,  but  which  he  simply  asked  my 
consent  to  have  suspended  for  the  present,  in  view  of  the  circumstances 
under  which  they  come  in.  I  renew  my  requisition  upon  you,  as  I  did 
upon  Col.  Wright,  and  I  enclose  for  your  information,  the  correspondence 
had  with  Col.  Wright,  in  relation  to  the  same  subject'. 

The  operations  on  the  Sound  have  been  from  the  beginning,  on  the 
part  of  the  Indians,  those  of  murderers  and  outlaws — no  tribe  as  such, 
having  broken  into  hostility — and  they  are,  therefore,  entitled  to  none  of 
the  rights  of  war.  Yet,  that  great  lenity  has  been  shown  them  by  the 
Territorial  authorities,  I  presume  that  I  could  have  no  better  witness 
than  yourself. 


215 

Granted  that  it  was  a  case  of  legitimate  warfare,  the  mea  for  whom 
I  make  requisition  committed  the  murders  in  a  time  of  profound  peace, 
under  circumstances  of  unsurpassed  treachery  and  barbarity,  when  their 
victims  were  entirely  unsuspicious  of  danger,  and  this,  too,  in  violation  of 
the  faith  of  treaties,  which  expressly  stipulated  for  the  giving  up  of  men 
guilty  of  such  offences. 

Nor  is  there  any  analogy  between  the  cases  of  known  Indians,  who 
have  murdered  white  men,  and  certain  unknown  white  men  who  have  mur 
dered  Indians.  Your  soldiers  killed  an  Indian.  Where  are  they?  The 
citizens  have  killed  Indians.  Where  are  they?  Two  are  in  your  own 
garrison  in  confinement,  awaiting  trial ;  and  the  others,  proof  has  not  yet 
bfien  found,  after  every  exertion  has  been  made  to  insure  a  bill  from  a 
grand  jury  in  regard  to  the  persons  suspected. 

How  can  the  civil  arms  reach  the  murderers,  except  by  the  assist 
ance  of  the  military?  Shall  a  posse  be  summoned  to  assist  the  sheriff, 
and  shall  he  penetrate  the  wilderness  of  the  upper  Puyallup,  where  now 
it  is  reported  Leschi  is?  Or  shall  I  give  official  information  to  the  mili 
tary  that  they  are  demanded,  and  ask  its  assistance  to  seize  them  wher 
ever  they  can  be  found? 

Any  citizen  can  give  information  before  a  magistrate,  and  have  a 
warrant  issued  for  their  arrest.  It  is,  in  my  humble  judgment,  in  view  of 
my  requisition,  the  duty  of  the  military  to  make  use  of  every  means  to> 
bring  these  Indians  within  reach  of  the  civil  authority. 

I  do  not  understand,  in  view  of  the  known  humanity  and  energy  of 
the  Indian  service  on  the  Sound,  aided,  as  it  has  been,  by  the  body  of  the 
citizens,  the  necessity,  in  communications  to  me,  of  this  constant  reference 
to  the  ill  treatment  of  the  Indians,  for  it  must  be  borne  in  mind,  that  we 
have  inanaged  some  four  thousand  five  hundred  Indians  on  temporary  res 
ervations  on  the  Sound  during  the  war. 

Indians  taken  from,  or  near  the  vicinity  of  the  war  ground,  and  by 
unwearied  vigilance  and  care,  have  seen  them  pass  from  a  state  of  uncer 
tainty  as  to  whether  they  would  join  the  war  party,  to  one  of  content 
ment  and  satisfaction,  with  no  assistance  from  the  military  whatever. 

I  have  not  seen  Col.  Simmons  since  my  return,  and  I  will  simply 
state  that  my  information  in  reference  to  his  having  notified  you  previous 
to  the  Indians  being  sent  to  the  reservation,  that  they  would  not  be  re 
ceived  there,  was  derived  from  persons  in  constant  communication  with 
him,  both  previous  and  subsequent  to  his  conference  with  you.  There  has 
been  some  misapprehension  in  the  matter,  either  on  his  part  or  yours. 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Sup.  Indian  Affairs,  W.  T, 


216 
[No.  142.] 

Fort  Steilacoom,  W.  T.,  Oct.  29,  1856. 


HEAD   QUARTERS,  PUGET  SOUND  DISTRICT,    ) 


His  Excellency,  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Sup.  Ind.  Affairs,  Olympia,  W.  T. : 

GOVERNOR: — Your  communication  of  the  27th  inst,  is  just  received. 
In  reply,  I  would  say  that  I  see  no  reason  to  alter  my  opinion  with  regard 
to  Indian  matters  on  the  Sound,  which  I  have  already  made  known  to  you, 
A  copy  of  your  communication  will  be  forwarded  to  the  General  com 
manding  the  Department  of  the  Pacific,  and  his  order  in  the  premises 
will  be  promptly  obeyed. 

I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

SILAS  CASEY, 
9th  Inf.  Com.  P.  S.  District,  Fort  Steilacoom,  W.  T.: 


143.} 

OFFICE  SUP.  INDIAN  AFFAIRS,    ) 
Olympia,  W.  T.,  Oct.  31,  1856.         ) 

Lieut.  Col.  SILAS  CASEY, 

Com.  Puget  Sound  Dist.,  Fort  Steilacoom,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  herewith  to  enclose  a  copy  of  a  letter  of 
instructions  from  Col.  Wright  to  Major  Garnett,  directing  the  latter  to 
turn  over  to  me  for  trial  before  the  courts,  Leschi,  Nelson,  Kitsap,  Stahi 
and  Quiemuth. 

These  instructions  show  conclusively,  that  Col.  Wright  had  made  no 
terms  with  these  men,  guaranteeing  to  them  immunity  from  punishment 
for  their  misdeeds. 

I  trust  that  you  will  feel  authorized  by  your  views  of  duty,  to  com 
ply  with  the  requisition  which  I  have  twice  made  upon  you,  £and  which  I 
take  again  this  occasion  to  renew. 

I  will  observe  that  the  instructions  to  Maj.  Garnett  were  enclosed 


217 

to  me  for  the  use  of  Col.  Shaw,  who  goes  to  the  Yakima  as  soon  as  his 
business  on  the  Sound  is  settled,  which  will  be  in  a  very  few  days. 
******** 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,;  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Sup.  Ind.  Affairs,  W.  T. 


[No.  144.] 

HEJ 

Fort  Steilacoom,  Nov.  2d,  1855. 


QUARTERS,  PUGET  SOUND  DISTRICT,    ) 


His  Excellency,  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Sup.  Indian  Affairs,  W.  T.: 

GOVERNOR  : — Yours  of  the  31st  ult.  is  received.  As  with  your  prior 
communication,  a  copy  will  be  transmitted  to  the  General  commanding 
the  Department  of  the  Pacific. 

I  shall,  in  the  meantime,  comply  with  the  requisition  of  the  civil  au 
thority,  so  far  as  it  can  be  done  without  a  re-commencement  of  hostilities 
on  my  part. 

In  all  ordinary  cases,  I  should  have  no  hesitation  hi  complying  with 
the  requisition  of  the  Superintendent  of  Indian  Affairs,  but  this  is  a  case 
in  which,  in  my  opinion,  the  rights  and  usages  of  war  are  somewhat  in 
volved,  and  in  consequence,  I  consider  myself  and  military  superiors  the 
proper  persons  to  judge  in  the  matter. 
Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  SILAS  CASEY, 

Lt.  Col.  9th  Inf.  Com.  P.  S.  District. 


28 


218 

[No.  145.] 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  PUGET  SOUND  DISTRICT,    ) 
Fort  Steilacoom,  W.  T.,  Nov.  6,  1856.  ) 

His  Excellency,  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

6rov.  and  Sup.  Indian  Affairs,  Olympia,  W.  T. : 
SIR: — Yours  of  the  4th  inst.,  is  just  received.  Neither  Lieut.  Mc- 
Kibbin  or  any  other  officer,  has  been  authorised  by  me  to  permit  Indians 
to  leave  the  reservation  without  authority  from  their  agent;  and  if  Lieut. 
McKibbin  has  so  far  exceeded  his  authority,  such  orders  will  be  given  to 
him  as  will  prevent  its  recurrence. 

The  Indians  near  the  outlet  of  the  Dewamish  lake,  are  those  who 
were  permitted  by  the  Indian  agent,  by  my  request,  to  go  to  that  point,  for 
the  purpose  of  constructing  a  fish  weir.  I  understand  they  are  catching 
a  large  number  of  fish,  and  I  trust,  will  be  permitted  to  stop  until  the  run 
of  fish  has  passed. 

As  I  remarked  to  you,  in  a  communication  a  few  days  since,  I  will 
again  repeat,  that  as  hostilities  had  ceased  in  this  district,  I  wished  to  be 
released  from  the  responsibility  of  the  charge  of  any  of  these  Indians, 
when  it  has  been  refused  by  your  agents,  and  I  considered  it  my  bounden 
duty  so  to  do,  in  order  that  the  peace  and  tranquillity  of  the  community 
may  be  preserved. 

With  regard  to  the  reports  which  your  agents  and  others  carry  to 
you  about  hostile  Indians,  &c.,  I  would  merely  say  that  I  find  it  necessary 
to  receive  all  such  reports  with  great  caution. 

The  one  which  I  had  the  honor  to  receive  from  you,  a  few  clays  since, 
stating  that  more  than  one  hundred  Indians  had  left  the  reservation  for 
the  purpose  of  joining  Leschi,  proves  to  have  been  what  I  believed  at  the 
time,  a  baseless  fabrication. 

With  a  sincere  desire  to  do  justice  to  all,  I  will  say  that  it  is  my 
firm  belief,  after  weighed,  I  trust,  with  due  consideration,  all  the  circum 
stances  connected  with  the  matter,  that  if,  in  dealing  with  the  Indians  on 
this  Sound,  a  spirit  of  justice  is  exercised,  and  those  who  have  charge  of 
them  are  actuated  by  an  eye  single  to  their  duties,  and  the  peace  of  the 
country,  there  need  be  no  further  difficulty.  If,  on  the  contrary,  undue 
credence  is  given  to  the  many  reports  which  are  constantly  being  circula 
ted  in  this  community,  (most  of  them  false,)  made  either  from  mere  wan 
tonness,  the  spirit  of  revenge,  or  from  interested  motives,  the  acts  of  out- 


rage  on  tlie  Indians,  which  their  belief,  by  unreflecting  persons  will  inves 
tigate,  may  lead  to  retaliation  and  the  peace  of  the  country  endangered. 
Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  SILAS  CASEY, 

Lt.  Col.  9th  Inf.,  Com.  Puget  Sound  District. 


[No.  146.] 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 
OLYMPIA,  Nov.  8th,  1856.         ) 


Lieut.  Col.  SILAS  CASEY, 

Commanding  Puget  Sound  District,  Fort  Steilacoom,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — I  have  received  your  letters  of  the  2d  and  6th  November,  by 
the  hands  of  Lt.  Nugen. 

My  reasons  for  declining  to  receive  the  Indians  at  your  post  have 
been  already  stated  and  remain  in  full  force.  When  the  murderers  and 
those  accused  of  murder,  are,  in  compliance  with  my  requisition,  placed 
by  you  in  the  hands  of  the  civil  authority,  the  Indians  will  be  received. 
The  agents  have  positive  orders  to  receive  none  of  these  Indians  except 
by  my  written  instructions.  These  Indians  have  been,  or  will  be  indicted 
by  the  grand  jury  of  the  several  counties.  As  you  have  proclaimed  that 
hostilities  have  ceased,  they  are  in  your  military  possession. 

I  enclose  the  report  to  me  of  my  local  agent,  Page,  in  regard  to  the 
alleged  interference  of  Lieut.  McKibbin  with  his  Indians.  I  am  glad  to 
be  informed  of  the  steps  you  have  taken  in  the  matter. 

In  regard  to  your  observations  about  the  reports  which  my  "agents 
and  others  carry  to  me, "  as  well  as  the  re-iterations  of  former  observa 
tions  in  reference  to  the  exercise  of  a  spirit  of  justice,  and  the  efforts  of 
persons  in  charge  of  Indians  being  "actuated  by  an  eye  single  to  those 
duties  and  the  peace  of  the  country,"  I  have  simply  to  state  that  the  tone 
of  them  is  offensive,  and  comes  with  an  ill  grace  from  the  authority  that 
has  done  little,  to  that  which  has  done  much.  It  is  not  my  disposition  to 
retaliate,  but  the  occasion  makes  it  proper  for  me  to  state  that  the  great- 


220 

est  difficulty  I  have  had  to  encounter  in  stopping  the  whisky  traffick  .with 
the  Indians  at  Steilacoom  and  Bellingham  Bay,  has  been  the  conduct  of 
your  own  command.  It  would  seem  to  be  more  appropriate  that  you 
should  first  control  and  reform  the  conduct  of  your  own  people,  before 
going  out  of  your  way  to  instruct  and  rebuke  another  branch  of  the  pub 
lic  service— a  service,  too,  which,  both  from  its  experience  and  the  success 
which  has  attended  its  labors,  is  entitled  to  the  presumption  that  it  is  as 
much  interested  and  as  much  devoted  to  the  peace  of  the  country  as  your 
self,  and  as  well  qualified,  to  say  the  least,  to  consider  dispassionately  and 
judge  wisely  of  affairs  at  the  present  juncture. 

I  have  also  been  informed  of  your  thanking  God,  in  the  presence  of 
Mr.  Wells,  who  informed  you  how  the  Muckelshoot  reservation  was  laid 
off,  that  the  iniquity  of  it  was  not  upon  your  hands — a  remark  highly 
presumptuous  and  insulting,  as  well  from  the  fact  the  business  did  not 
concern  you,  as  from  the  fact  that  the  reservation  was  laid  off  both  in  the 
way  I  arranged  with  the  Indians  at  the  council  on  Fox  Island,  and  to 
their  satisfaction  on  the  ground. 

I  am  also  informed  by  Col.  Simmons  personally,  that  he  did  give  you 
notice  that  he  would  not  receive  the  Indians.  I  presume  you  did  not  lis 
ten  to  him,  being  altogether  too  much  pre-occupied  with  your  own  views, 
to  listen  to  a  gentleman  in  regard  to  a  business  of  which  he  and  his  supe 
riors  "are  the  proper  persons  to  judge." 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Sup.  Indian  Affairs,  W.  T. 

N.  B. — I  will  respectfully  ask  you  to  send  me  a  copy  of  my  letter 
notifying  you  that  one  hundred  Indians  had  left  to  join  Leschi. 


[No.  147.] 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  PUGET  SOUND  DISTRICT,    ) 
Fort  Steilacoom,  W.  T.;  Nov.  12,  1856.  ) 


His  Excellency,  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Sup.  Indian  Affairs,  Olympia,  W.  T.: 
GOVERNOR  :— I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your 
communication  of  the  8th  inst 


221 

By  reference  to  your  communication  of  the  25th  ult.,  I  find  the  fol 
lowing  :  "In  regard  to  Leschi  I  will  state  that,  from  recent  information 
in  my  possession,  I  am  almost  certain  that  he  is  now  endeavoriug  to  raise 
a  force  to  prosecute  the  war  anew." 

The  expressman,  who  brought  your  letter  informed  me,  that  informa 
tion  had  been  received  in  Olympia  that  one  hundred  and  fifty  Indians  had 
left  the  reservation  and  joined  Leschi.  I  was  informed  by  Mr.  Ford, 
the  next  day,  that  he  himself  had  conveyed  to  you  that  or  similar  infor 
mation,  and  that  he  had  since  ascertained  that  it  was  not  so. 

When  I  addressed  you  my  communication  I  had  not  yours  before  me, 
and  inadvertently  confounded  my  information.  It  was  an  error  on  my 
part,  and  I  cheerfully  correct  it. 

I  have  enclosed  a  copy  of  a  communication  received  by  me  from  Lt. 
McKibbin  with  regard  the  charge  of  your  agent. 
Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  SILAS  CASEY, 

Lt.  Col.  9th  Inf.  Com.  P.  S.  District. 


[No.  148.] 

EXECUTIVE  Oi 

Olympia,  Feb.  2d,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 


W.  W.  MILLER,  ESQ., 

Quartermaster  and  Commissary  General,  Olympia: 

SIR  : — You  will  issue  certificates  for  purchases  made  by  you,  which, 
on  presentation  at  this  office,  will  be  endorsed  by  me. 
Very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS. 
Gov.  Washington  Territory. 


[No.  149.] 

EXECUTIVE 

Olympia,  Feb.  18th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,  ) 


W.  W.  MILIER,  Esq., 

Qr.  Master  and  Commissary  General : 

SIR  : — Move  to-morrow  to  Montgomery's,  with  all  your  waggons, 
teamsters,  employees  and  supplies,  leaving  on  the  Yelm  prairie  simply 
supplies  for  20  men  for  ten  days. 

Give  directions  to  the  available  teams  at  Steilacoom  to  move  to-mor 
row  morning  to  Montgomery's,  with  forage  for  the  advance  of  Henness' 
company. 

All  the  foot  troops  will  move  with  you  to  Montgomery's.  Henness 
will  occupy  the  Yelm  with  fifteen  men,  and  push  forward  in  person  with 
the  bulk  of  his  company  to  cover  the  movement  on  Montgomery's. 

On  reaching  Montgomery's  on  Tuesday,  (to-morrow)  you  will  push 
all  your  teams  to  Steilacoom  on  Wednesday,  with  orders  to  deliver  every 
thing  there  next  day. 

On  Friday  morning,  I  shall  move  on  the  Puyallup.  On  Thursday, 
an  election  for  Major  will  be  ordered. 

All  the  foot  troops  will  be  ordered  to  be  actively  employed  on  the 
buildings. 

My  aid-de-camp,  Lieut.  Col.  Hurd,  will  go  to  Steilacoom  to-day,  and 
will  see  to  the  getting  to  Montgomery's  of  forage,  lumber  for  block-hou 
ses,  lumber,  blocks,  tackles,  &c.,  for  the  ferry  on  the  Puyallup. 

He  will  meet  the  command  at  Montgomery's,  and  has  directions 
from  me  as  to  the  buildings. 

You  will  press  into  the  service  all  the  able-bodied  men  in  the  vicinity. 
Respectfully,  &c., 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Gov.    Washington  Territory. 


[No.  150.] 

YELM  PRAIRIE,  Feb.  18th,  1856, 

Gov.   ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Olympia  : 

SIR  : — In  accordance  with  your  orders,  a  train  of  twenty-seven  wag 
gons  will  leave  here  for  Montgomery's  to-morrow  morning. 


223 

It  will  take  with  it  about  seventeen  thousand  (1,700)  pounds  of 
flour,  together  with  many  other  articles,  an  invoice  of  which  accompanies 
this. 

To-morrow  morning  I  shall  proceed  to  Nesqually,  and  hope  to  either 
here  or  there,  press  teams  enough  into  the  service  to  take  Tolmie's  pork, 
sugar  and  clothing  to  Montgomery's  forthwith. 

I  shall  then  go  to  Steilacoom,  and  assist  Gove  in  hiring  all  the 
teams  in  that  vicinity,  and  shall  push  them  forward  to  the  depot. 

In  the  meantime,  I  shall  send  O'Bryant  to  Muck,  with  orders  to  hire 
or  press  into  service  all   the  wagons  in  that  neighborhood,  which  are  to 
be  laden  with  whatever  kind  of  forage  that  can  be  obtained  and  sent  for 
ward  immediately  to  the  depot  at  Montgomery's. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 

W.  W.  MILLER, 

Quartermaster,  &c. 

-V-aVMT     .1  OA.A8! 


OTo.  151.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON, 
OLYMPIA,  Feb.  20th,  1856. 

Gen.  MILLER, 

Quartermaster  and  Com.  General,  W.  T.  V.: 

SIR  : — Your  letter  is  received,  and  I  am  well  pleased  with  the  en 
ergy  you  have  manifested  in  getting  the  provisions  and  forage  into  the 
field. 

I  have  ordered  the  formation  of  a  company,  and  the  election  of  oftV 
cers  for  the  teamsters  and  quartermaster's  men  in  your  employ. 

My  staff  officer,  Lt.  Col.  Hurd,  is  ordered  to  issue  the  certificate  to 
the  Major  who  is  elected. 

The  Major  elected,  is  ordered  to  push  forward  to  the  Puyallup  on 
Friday  morning,  and  there  to  establish  a  ferry  and  block-house.  Thence 
to  push  forward  to  Porter's  prairier  and  there  establish  a  ferry  and  block 
house,  and  then  push  on  to  Muckleshoot  prairie.  Get  every  thing  in  rea 
diness  OH  Friday  morning.  Push  forward  with  the  train  yourself.  I  will 


join  the  command  on  Sunday.     It  is   important  that  the  utmost  energy 
characterizes  all  our  movements. 

Pat  Kanim  and  all  the  available  forces  of  the  Northern  battalion 
are  actively  engaged  against  the  enemy  from  the  line  of  the  Snohomish, 
and  it  is  necessary  to  push  forward  on  the  Puyallup,  and  in  advance 
thereof  immediately. 

The  friendly  Indians  will  all  be  here  to-morrow,  and  will  go  to  the 
Puyallup  on  Friday,  to  move  up  between  the  Puyallup  and  White  river 
on  Saturday,  to  cover  our  advance,  and  will  be  under  the  command  of 
Captain  Ford. 

Go  with  the  troops  and  train  to  the  Puyallup  on  Friday,  and  return 
here  on  Saturday,  that  I  may  confer  with  you  in  reference  to  supplies, 
&c. 

Everything  is  going  on  well  here. 
I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS. 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  152.] 

MONTGOMERY'S,  Feb.  20th,  1856. 

Gov.  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Olympia  : 

SIR  : — Our  train  arrived  here  last  night,  ^and  [we  have  taken  Mont 
gomery's  barn  for  a  store  house. 

Yesterday  I  sent  some  waggons  to  Nesqually  for  pork,  sugar,'cloth- 
ing,  &c.,  &c.,  and  to-day  have  sent  twenty  men  to  Steilacoom  tojbring  up 
the  supplies  from  that  place. 

From  Mr.  Montgomery  I  have  purchased]  a  thousand  pounds  of 
most  excellent  pork,  which  I  am  having  salted^down,  and  will  have  it 
ready  to  go  with  the  train  on  Friday. 

From  Mr.  Wren,  I  can  get  as  much  fresh  beef  as  we  will  want. 

I  can  get  forage  enough  in  this  vicinity  to  last  the  command  for  a 
month. 

To  sum  up  the  whole,  by  to-morrow  night,  I  will  have  at  this  post 


225 

sufficient  provisions  to  last  two  hundred  men  three  or  four  months,  and 
ample  forage  in  the  vicinity  for  a  month. 

In  conclusion,  I  have  the  honor  to  report  that  the  train  and  em 
ployees  of  the  Quartermaster  department,  will  be  in  readiness  to  move  to 
the  Puyallup  on  Friday  next. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Very  respectfully,  &c., 

W.  W.  MILLER, 

Quartermaster,  &c. 


|No.  153.] 

MONTGOMERY'S,  Feb.  22d,  1856. 

Gov.  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Olyrnpia  : 

SIR  : — Our  train  is  now  ready  to  move,  and  could  have  done  so  this 
morning.  Col.  Hnrd,  I  learn,  is  sick  at  Steilacoom,  and  Major  Hays, 
who  is  now  at  Steilacoom,  has  given  me  no  order  to  move.  Our  train 
will  move  with  rations  for  150  men  for  100  days. 

I  send  this  in  order  to  have  5,000  government  percussion  caps  for 
warded  here  to-morrow.     I  sent  an  express  to  Steilacoom  for  them  to-day, 
but  Hurd  writes  me  that  none  can  be  had  there.     Let  an  express  start 
from  Olympia  to-inorrow  at  day-light,  icith  the  caps,  and  it  will  overtake  us 
before  we  get  to  tlie  Puyallup.     Let  this  matter  be  attended  to  immedi 
ately.     At  the  same  time,  forward  four  tents  for  Henness'  company. 
Hays,  I  think,  will  move  on  the  Puyallup  to-morrow  morning. 
I  will  try  and  be  at  Olympia  on  Sunday  morning. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Very  respectfully,  &c., 

W.  W.  MILLER, 

Quartermaster,  &c. 

29 


226 

[No.  154.] 

CAMP  MONTGOMERY,  Feb.  28th,  1856. 

Q.  M.  AND  COM.  GEN.  MILLER, 

Camp  Montgomery: 

SIR  : — You  will,  in  your  official  capacity,  accompany  the  expedition 
moving  from  this  point  into  the  Indian  country.  When  it  reaches  the 
Muckleshoot  prairie,  and  the  necessary  establishments  are  there  made, 
you  will  return  with  the  train. 

You  will  see  that  suitable  supplies  are  left  at  the  block-house  on  the 
Puyallup;  say  fifty  days,  and  that  nothing  required  at  the  Muckleshootr 
or  on  the  march  is  left  behind,  as  salt  barrels  and  forage.  The  forage 
will  have  to  be  economized,  but  with  the  precaution  of  camping  in  prai 
ries,  where,  unquestionably,  will  be  some  grass,  and  if  not  moving  till  the- 
way  is  cleared  to  the  next  camping  place,  it  is  hoped  that  it  will  be  suffi 
cient. 

Note  carefully  all  deficiencies  in  supplies,  so  that  they  may  be  for 
warded  on  your  return. 

Ascertain  whether  there  is  any  forage  at  Headley's,  at  the  forks  of 
the  Puyallup,  two  miles  above  our  crossing  place.  Headley,  as  you  know, 
is  one  of  our  teamsters;  and  generally  find  out  all  about  the  forage  and 
grass  between  the  Puyallup  and  White  rivers.  This  will  have  influence 
in  the  matter  of  re-mounting  the  rangers,  and  in  determining  their  field 
of  operations.  See  that  the  wagons  are  carefully  repaired,  and  strength 
ened  each  night  after  reaching  camp. 

On  reaching  the  Muckleshoot,  make  the  best  arrangements  for  secu 
ring  temporarily  the  stores,  and  have  killed  and  salted  twenty-five  of  the 
fattest  oxen.  Additional  beeves  may  remain  for  fresh  beef.  A  small 
number  of  teams  will  be  required  for  service  whilst  the  post  is  occupied 
—say  six  to  eight.  The  remainder  of  the  train  should  be  brought  back 
as  soon  as  practicable. 

The  train  wifl  probably  have  to  return  by  the  way  it  goes  out,  I 
do  not  think  Lieut.  Col.  Casey  will  get  wagons  through  to  the  Muckle 
shoot  unless  he  adopts  our  route. 

Whilst  I  have  given  direction  to  Major  Hays  to  take  his  own  route 
to  the  Muckleshoot,  I  have  strongly  advised  his  going  by  Porters.  We 
know  we  can  reach  the  Muctdeshoot  by  Porters,  and  that  if  the  weather  con 
tinues,  we  can  ford  White  river  at  Porters.  It  will  probably  require  very 
great  labor  to  reach  the  Muckleshoot  by  any  other  route.  Moreover,, 
by  Porters,  I  think  there  is  more  grass,  and  Porters  is  a  very  important 
point  to  occupy. 

Sergeant  Phillips  and  private  Mize,  of  the  detachment  at  this  place,. 


227 


have  each  a  good  two  horse  team.     I  have  this  moruing  detailed  them 
for  service  with  the  train.     You  will  engage  their  teams,  and  apply  them 
to  supplying  this  post  from  Steilacoom  and  the  Yelm. 
I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  155.] 

CAMP 

Feb.  28th,  1856. 


CAMP  AT  LEMON'S  PRAIRIE,    ) 


Gov.  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Olympia,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — I  arrived  here  about  two  hours  since,  and  it  is  now  4  o'clock, 
p.  M.  The  train  which  left  Montgomery's  this  morning  is  just  getting  in 
in  good  order. 

I  am  hurrying  up  my  men  in  order  to  have  the  train  in  perfect  read 
iness  to  move  to-morrow  morning,  should  Major  Hays  so  order.  It  will 
be  ready  at  that  time.  ^  •  •, 

After  supplying  this  post  with  fifty  days'  rations,  the  train  will  take 
with  it  about  1350  pounds  of  flour,  36  barrels  of  pork,  1400  pounds  su 
gar,  200  pounds  coffee  and  150  pounds  te&,  besides  beans,  rice,  hard 
bread,  &c.,  &c.  It  will  be  seen  that  there  is  a  deficiency  in  the  amount 
of  pork,  but  I  hope  to  supply  its  place  by  putting  up  some  seventy-five 
barrels  of  beef,  as  soon  as  we  get  to  Muckleshoot.  Granting  that  there 
will  be  one  hundred  men  stationed  at  Muckleshoot,  after  deducting  ten 
men  for  this  post  and  Henness'  company,  and  the  teamsters  shall  have  re- 
returned,  I  am  inclined  to  think  that  they  will  have  ample  provision  for 
ninety  or  a  hundred  days  at  that  post. 

Boots  and  shoes  are  more  needed  than  anything  else  just  now.  If, 
when  any  are  obtained,  they  be  sent  immediately  to  Montgornerys,  I  will 
try  and  have  them  forwarded  to  the  outposts  as  I  come  in. 

It  is  now  nearly  dark,  and  no  order  has  come  from  Major  Hays  to 
move  to-morrow  .morning.  I  learn  that  the  ferry  boat  is  not  finished, 


228 

and  presume  that  it  is  not  the   Major's  intention  to  take  up  the  line  of 
march  to-morrow. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Very  respectfully,  &c., 

W.  W.  MILLER, 

Quartermaster,  &c. 


[No.  156.] 

CAMP 

March  3d,  1856. 


CAMP  CONNEU/S  PRAIRIE,    ) 


Gov.  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Olympia  : 

Sm  : — Our  train  arrived  here  early  to-day  in  good  order,  without 
meeting  with  any  serious  accident  since  leaving  Montgomery's..  The  ut 
most  harmony  seems  to  exist  among  all  the  employees  of  the  Quartermas 
ter's  Department.  Major  Hays  informs  me  that  he  is  uncertain  whether 
he  will  move  to-morrow  or  not,  of  which  he  has  doubtless  informed  you 
by  the  express. 

Our  cattle  find  excellent  feed  on  the  prairies,  in  addition  to  which 
we  have  four  or  five  days'  supply  of  chopped  feed  on  hand. 

In  conclusion,  I  have  only  to  add,  that  I  feel  confident  that  I  shall 
be  fully  able  to  carry  out  your  instructions,  dated  at  Montgomery's,  touch?- 
ing  the  Quartermaster's  Department  of  the  expedition. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be, 
Very  respectfully,  &c., 

W.  W.  MILLER, 

Quartermaster,  &c. 


229 

[No.  151] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY, 
OLYMPIA,  March  3d,  1856. 

QUARTERMASTER  AND  COM.  GEN.  MILLER, 

Camp  Connell : 

SIR  : — Your  letters  reached  me  early  this  morning,  and  I  am  much 
gratified  at  the  favorable  condition  of  things  with  the  train  and  supplies. 

There  are  in  town  seven  dozen  prs.  boots,  and  ten  prs.  of  shoes,  at 
the  stores  of  Lightner^  Bettman,  and  Barnes.  I  will  send  out  at  least 
one  half  of  them  to  Montgomery's  within  the  next  three  days.  Also,  a 
supply  of  stationery. 

The  question  of  the  selection  of  the  main  depot,  has  been  confided 
W  the  discretion  of .  Major  Hays,  who  has  strongly  recommended  Con- 
nell's,  and  will  commence,  as  he  writes  me,  building  a  store  house  to-day, 
and  he  has  been  referred  to  the  original  instructions  in  reference  to  the 
return  of  the  wagon  train,  &c. 

Tii  ere  will  be  some  delay  in  pushing  supplies  to  Montgomery's,  in 
consequence  of  small  parties  of  hostile  Indians  infesting  the  road.  Two 
men  have  been  killed.  Your  teamster,  Northcraft,  a  week  ago  Saturday, 
within  three  miles  of  the  block-house,  on  the  Yelm,  and  Mr.  William 
White,  killed  yesterday. 

To  meet  this  exigency,  I  am  raising  twenty-five  mounted  Quartermas 
ter's  men  to  serve  for  one  month,  as  a  guard  to  the  train,  and  strengthen 
ing  Montgomery's  by  a  detachment  of  eight  men  drawn  from  Lone  Tree 
Point.  Strengthening  post  at  Yelm  Prairie  by  hired  Quartermaster's 
men:  directing  all  the  French  and  half  breeds  connected  with  the  Indians, 
to  go  to  Fort  Nesqually,  to  remain  there  under  guard,  and  have  ordered 
one  company  over  from  the  Columbia  river. 

Capt.  Henness  need  have  no  fear  of  his  horses.     Col.  Crosbie  in 
spected  the  post  Saturday,  and  returned  from  there  yesterday.     The  men 
are  on  their  guard,  and  the  animals  are  doing  remarkably  well. 
Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Oov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


230 

[No.  158.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  W.  T.,      ) 
May  1st,  1856.  ) 

*QR.  M.  AND  COM.  GEN,  MILLER, 

Olympia  : 

-SiR  : — By  the  enclosed  copy  and  special  orders  of  this  date,  you  are 
advised  of  the  appointment  of  James  K.  Hurd  as  assistant  Quartermas 
ter  and  Commissary  General,  with  the  rank  of  Lieut.  Col.,  and  that  he 
has  been  directed  to  report  to  you  for  orders.  You  will  assign  him  to 
the  charge  of  the  Columbia  river  district,  with  orders  to  proceed  thither 
at  the  earliest  practicable  moment,  and  under  your  direction,  to  take 
Charge  of  the  affairs  of  the  department  in  that  quarter. 

His  district  will  include  Lewis  county,  and  the  supply  of  the  com 
pany  under  Capt.  Warbass,  and  his  duties  will  embrace  not  simply  the  su 
pervision  of  the  Quartermasters  and  Commissaries  in  that  region,  but  will 
include  the  whole  business  of  supplies  to  be  drawn  from  that  quarter. 

You  will  instruct  A.  Q.  M.  &  Corn.  Gen.  Hurd,  to  make  the  depart- 
.ment  in  the  highest  degree  efficient,  by  suspending  and  reporting  for  re- 
.nioval,  all  Quartermasters  who  are  incompetent  to  do  their  duty,  by 
promptly  removing  all  unnecessary  employees,  and  by  substituting  in  place 
.-of  incompetent  men,  those  who  can  efficiently  discharge  their  duty. 

You  will  issue  orders  to  the  several  quartermasters  and  agents,  ad 
vising  them  of  the  appointment  of  Lieut.  Col.  Hurd — informing  them  of 
the  duty  which  has  been  assigned  to  him  and,  directing  them  strictly  to 
comply  with  his  instructions. 

Lt.  Col.  Hurd  will  give  his  special  attention  to  the  forwarding  of  the 
accounts  of  the  several  quartermasters,  and  will  report  'to  you  in  relation 
to  any  cases  which  may  have  occurred,  of  exorbitant  prices  being  paid,  to 
the  end  that  extravagance  may  not  be  sustained  in  procuring  supplies  for 
the  war. 

An  efficient  Quartermaster  and  Commissary  organization  is  needed 
on  the  river — one  which,  without  pretention,  will  meet  the  public  wants, 
at  the  least  possible  expenditure,  and  with  the  least  possible  patronage. 
It  is  expected  from  CoL  Hurd's  known  vigor  and  judgment,  that  the 
remedy  will  be  promptly  applied  by  him  to  the  inefficient  condition  of 
things  on  the  river. 

Furthermore,  you  will  give  stringent  orders  to  Lt.  Col.  Hurd,  to 
:carry  out  your  orders,  holding  him  responsible  for  allowing  any  person  to 


231 

come  between  him  and  the  Quartermaster  General,  unless  by  the  written* 
orders  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 

Truly,  your  obedient  servant, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Governor  and  Commandeivm-Chief. 


[No.  159.J 

EXECUTIVE  0 

Olympia,-  May  1st,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,  1 


QR.  and  COM.  GEN.  MILLER, 

Olympia : 

SIR  : — The  special  order  of  this  date  appointing  James  K.  Hurd 
Ass't.  Quartermaster  and  Commissary  General,  with  the  rank  of  Lieut. 
Colonel,  in  connection  with  my  instructions  to  you  of  this  date,  to  assign 
him  to  the  Columbia  and  Cowlitz  rived  district,  will  insure  the  supervis 
ion  intended  to  be  secured  by  the  recent  instructions,  directing  Captain 
Pagett  to  get  his  supplies  by  requisition  on  Quartermasters  Hathaway  and 
Hurd.  Capt.  Pagett  will  now  get  his  supplies  by  requisition  on  Ass't. 
Quartermaster  and  Commissary  General  Hurd.  You  are  authorized, 
however,  to  give  Lt.  Col.  Hurd  the  necessary  discretion  as  to  the  extent 
he  may  deem  it  necessary  that  Capt.  Pagett  should  make  purchases. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  Washington  Territory. 


LNo.  160] 

EXECUTIVE  C 

OLYMPIA,  May  5th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 


QR.  M.  and  COM.  GEN.  MILLER, 

Olympia : 
SIR  : — You  will  build  a  block-house  and  corral  on  the  Tenalquot,  for 


232 

a  Quartermaster's  depot,  and  open  a  wagon  road  from  the  Yelm  to  the 
Grand  Mound,  through  the  Tenalquot,  on  the  shortest  practicable  trail ; 
also,  repair  the  road  leading  from  Chamber's  prairie  to  the  Tenalquot. 

In  the  execution  of  this  duty,  you  are  authorized  to  engage  the  ne 
cessary  employees.  Select  an  efficient  man  to  take  charge. 

In  the  herding  of  public  animals  on  the  Tenalquot,  it  is  suggested 
that  you  employ  one  or  more  citizens  of  the  neighborhood,  as  from  their 
knowledge  of  the  trails  they  will  be  best  able  to  recover  estrays. 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  Ter.  Wash. 


J  • 


[No.  161.] 

EXECUTIVE 

Olympia,  May  28th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 


QR.  M.  and  COM.  GEN.  MILLER, 

Olympia  : 

SIR  : — You  will  use  every  exertion  to  have  in  readiness  at  Mont 
gomery's,  in  five  days,  twenty  ox  teams,  three  yoke  of  oxen  to  each  team. 
This  train  is  to  transport  supplies  to  a  depot  to  be  established  at 
the  first  good  prairie  on  the  main  Yakima.     It  will  cross  the  Cascades  at 
the  Snoqualmie  pass. 

On  the  establishment  of  the   depot,  the  train  will  immediately  re 
turn. 

Some  of  the  fattest  oxen  could  be  retained  for  fresh  beef,  and  two 
or  three  of  the  teams  turned  over  to  Major  Yan  Bx)kelin. 

If  the   pack  train  can  be  got  up  to  one  hundred  animals,  it  will  be 
safe  to  make  the  movement. 

Truly  and  respectfully  yours, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS,. 
Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


233 
[No. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,          ) 
July  nth,  1856.  ) 

QB.  and  COJT.  GEN.  MILLER, 

Olympia,  W.  T.: 

SIK  :  —  Capt.  Swindal  has  been  directed  to  turn  over  Fort  Hicks  to 
Lt.  Col.  Casey. 

You  will  take  the  necessary  steps  to  move  the  stores  there  in  depot 
to  Steilacoom. 

Reduce  the  expenses  as  much  as  possible,  by  discharging  all  persons 
in  your  department  whose  services  are  no  longer  required. 

You  will  muster  out  of  service  the  guard  at  the  Nesqually  Ferry 
blpck-house. 

I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  163.] 

OFFICE  . 

OLYMPIA,  Aug.  2d,  1856. 


OFFIQE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V., } 

[ 


QR.  MASTER  and  COM,  GEN.  MILLER, 

Olympia: 

SIR  : — You  are  appointed  inspecting  and  enrolling  officer  for  the  levy 
of  200  men  called  for  to  strengthen  the  right  wing  of  the  2d  regiment, 
W.  T.  V.,  under  Col.  Shaw. 

You  will,  in  pursuance  of  those  orders,  appoint  recruiting  agents  at 
such  points  as  you  may  designate.  Concentrate  the  recruits  at  Fort  Ste 
vens,  and  equip  them  for  the  march  at  that  point. 

Appoint  a  medical  officer  to  inspect  the  mental  and  physical  condi 
tion  of  each  man  offering  for  service. 

Reject  all  men  who  are  not  of  good  health,  and  able  to  bear  fatigue. 

Hasten  the  raising  of  these  men  with  all  possible  dispatch,  and  re- 
30 


234 

port  progress  to  this  office,  and  marching  orders  will  issue  hence,  when 
the  organization  of  the  companies  is  complete. 

You  will  designate  the  company  raised  by  yourself  as  Co.  "  A,"  &d 
regiment,  W.  T.  mounted  volunteers. 
Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

J.  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  Y. 
By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Coimnander-in-Chief. 


[No.  164.  J' 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASHINGTON, 
Olympia,  Aug.  8th,  1856. 

QR.  and  COM.  GEN.  MILLER, 

Olympia  : 

SIR  : — You  will  dispense  with  the  services  of  all   Quartermasters, 
Commissaries,  and  agents,  whose  services  are  no  longer  required — report 
ing  their  names  and  the  dates  of  the  expiration  of  service  to  the  Adjutant 
General,  that  the  necessary  discharges  may  issue. 
Yery  respectfully,  &c., 

ISAAC  L  STEYENS, 

Gov.  and  Com.  in-Chief^ 


[No.  165,-] 

EXECUTIVE  O: 

Olympia,  Feb.  18th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  7 


Col.  B.  P.  SHAW, 

SIR  : — I. put  in  your  charge  the  preparation  of  the  expedition  against 
the  Indians  etfst  of  the  Cascade  mountains. 


235 

You  will  see  that  the  several  Captains  who  propose  to  raise  compa 
nies  are  amply  supplied  in  every  respect,  and  are  filled  with  energy  for 
the  purpose  they  are  to  accomplish. 

You  will  understand  the  country  east  of  the  Cascades,  and  that  it  is 
important  to  keep  the  Spokanes  and  Nez  Perces  friendly. 

*  *  *  A  pots  must  be  established  at  Walla  Wal 

la — the  Columbia  river  must  be  crossed,  and  the  Yakima  country  occu 
pied.  The  Yakimas  must  be  stricken  in  their  own  country  with  a  firm 
and  a  strong  hand. 

******** 

Recollect  that  we  are  hard  pushed  on  .the  Sound.  We  have  a 
determined  enemy  on  White  river.  We  know  not  when  the  friendly  In 
dians  may  become  hostile — when  the  northern  Indians  may  join  them. 

We  are  pushing  on  with  all  our  forces.  The  regular  army,  the  volun 
teers,  the  navy  and  the  friendly  Indians,  are  all  in  the  field. 

We  trust  we  will  have  the  contest  closed  on  this  side  the  mountains 
in  one  month,  and  then  we  will  have  one  hundred  men  on  good  horses  to 
cross  the  mountains  to  your  assistance,  but  instead  of  our  going  to  your 
assistance,  we  may  have  need  of  your  coming  to  us;  therefore  the  neces 
sity  of  Indian  spies  between  the  two  forces.  Immediately  on  your  occu 
pying  the  Yakima  mission,  you  will  send  spies  over  the  Cascade  passes  to 

the  troops  operating  on  this  side  from  the  Snohomish  to  Steilacoom. 
*****  *** 

You  will  report  to  head  quarters  the  day  you  take  up  your  line  of 
march. 

I  am,  very  respectfully, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Com.-in-Chief,  W.  T.  V. 


[No.  166.] 

EXECUTIVE 

Olympia,  Feb.  20tb,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY^  ) 


Ass't  Adj't  Gen.  B.  F.  SHAW, 

W.  T.  Volunteers  : 

SIR  : — In  my  letter  to  you  of  the  18th  inst.,  I  suggested  to  you  the 
use  of  boats  in  transporting  your  supplies  to  Walla  Walla. 


236 

Even  should  boats  be  used,  you  will  require^for  a  force  of  200  men, 

not  less  than  100  pack  animals,  and  20  packers. 

*  *  *  *  *  * 

If  you  use  wagons,  buy  or  hire  forty  Take  with  you  means  to 
cross  the  Columbia  river.  No.  1  duck  will  answer  to  put  around  the 
wagon  beds. 

%  *  *  *  :'•:  * 

You  will  occupy  the  Yakima  station  in  a  manner  similar  to  that  at 
Walla  Walla.  A  block-house  and  twenty-five  men,  and  a  store  house  for 
provisions.  If  you  start  with  200  men,  this  will  leave  you  150  for  ope 
rations  in  the  field.  I  am  convinced  that  with  this  number  you  can  strike 
a  blow  in  the  Yakirna  country. 

But  should  you  meet  with  serious  difficulties,  I  am  equally  well  con 
vinced  that  you  0,111  hold  your  position  at  the  Yakima  mission  until  we 

shall  come  to  your  assistance. 

****** 

Better  have  one  year's  supply  on  hard  at  the  close' of  the  war  to  be 
sold  at  a  discount,  than  allow  our  people  to  want  food  for  one  day.  We 
hope  to  close  this  war  in  a  few  weeks,  but  we  must  not  be  behind  Karni- 
a-kin,  who  swears  he  will  fight  for  five  years.  > 

*  ;.*       *  *  *  *  * 

I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  167.] 

VANCOUVER,  W.  T,,  Feb.  21st,  1856. 

rf ' 
His  Excellency  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief : 
SIR  :— I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  my  commit- 


287 

sion  as  assistant  adjutant  general,  also  a  letter  of  instructions  as  assistant 
quartermaster  general,  and  letters  and  instructions  for  the  field. 

****** 

I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 

(Signed,^  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Ass't  Adj't  Gen.  W.  T.  V. 


[No.  168.] 

SALEM,  O.  T.,  Feb.  29th,  1856. 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V.: 

SIR  : — I  have  this  moment  received  your  letter  of  instructions,  and 
have  accordingly  sent  orders  to  the  companies  at  Vancouver  to  move  up 
the  river  to  the  Dalles,  where  I  propose  to  join  them  and  move  into  the 
Indian  country. 

We  have  been  unavoidably  delayed  here  in  raising  men  and  horses. 
Some  eighty  men  have  been  raised  at  Vancouver,  and  the  supplies  had  to 
be  purchased  and  animals  purchased  for  transportation.  The  whole  thing 
cannot  be  accomplished  in  a  moment.  I  have  been  laboring  hard  to  raise 
men  to  join  iu  the  next  fight,  but  I  think  it  will  be  impossible  for  us  to 
move  in  line  to  engage  in  the  first  fight,  on  account  of  the  great  distance 
to  travel,  and  the  time  being  so  limited.  The  force  will,  however,  move 
,as  soon  as  possible. 

I  have  been  here  several  days,  trying  to  raise  two  companies  to  go 
out.  I  have  a  fair  prospect  of  obtaining  recruits,  and  will  know  in  a  few 
days  how  many.  I  will  then  proceed  to  the  Dalles  and  join  the  compa 
nies  that  go  first,  leaving  the  last  companies  in  charge  of  their  respective 
captains,  to  bring  up  the  rear.  I  cannot  complete  my  arrangements  here 
so  as  to  leave  before  the  first  of  March,  and  will  reach  the  Dalles  about 
the  7th.  The  whole  force  cannot  reach  the  Dalles  before  the  tenth  of 
March. 

*  *  ,*  #  #  *  *  * 


238 

1  will  send  you  word  the  day  that  I  take  up  my  line  of  march  from 
the  Dalles.  We  have  now  nearly  the  entire  supplies  procured,  and  I  have 
ordered  them  shipped  immediately  to  the  Dalles,  to  prevent  delay  in  that 
respect. 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,)  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Ass't  Adjt.  Gen.  W.  T. 


[No.  169.] 

EXECUTIVE  < 

Olympia,  March  2d,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 


Lieut.  Col.  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Assistant  Adj.  General ; 

SIR  : — You  will  order  Capt.  Maxon's  company  of  volunteers  to  pro 
ceed  to  this  point  without  delay. 

The  Multnomah  will  go  up  on  Tuesday.     Charter  her  on  Wednesday 
to  bring  the  troops  to   Monticello.     The  troops  will  then  take  the  trail 
and  push  on  to  Olympia  as  rapidly  as  possible. 
I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS. 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


•i •',  /.-:„    .  -i 


[NO.  no.] 

OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  Y.;  ) 
OLYMPIA,  March  2d,  1856.         ) 

.  CROSBIE, 

Aid  to  Commander-in-Chief : 
SIR  : — You  will  proceed  immediately  to  the  Columbia  river,  arid  con- 


239 

vey  orders  to  Col.  B.  F.  Shaw,  or  in  his  absence,  to  Capt.  Maxon,  to 
march  as  soon  as  possible  to  this  place,  with  sixty  men  of  the  Southern 
battalion. 

You  are  authorized  to  give  the  details  of  orders  for  the  purpose,  un 
der  the -authority  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief,  to  all  quar 
termaster  and  commissary  officers,  and  contract  for  supplies  and  transpor 
tation  yourself  when  such  officers  are  not  present. 

Celerity  of  movement  is  expressly  enjoined,  as  there  is  reason  to  be 
lieve  the  enemy  are  endeavoring  to  get  in  the  rear  of  the  forces  now  ad 
vanced  to  White  river  country,  and  as  the  settlemnts  upon  the  Sound  are 
weak,  and  it  is  important  to  the  service  to  maintain  the  Central  battalion 
in  its  present  strength  and  position.  We  can  look  for  reinforcements  to 
the  Columbia  alone. 

Respectfully,  &c.; 
(Signed,)  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adft  Gen'l  W.  T.  V. 

By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-chief,  W.  T.  Y. 


(No.  17L] 

FORT  VANCOUVER,  March  9th,  1856. 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS,  Esq., 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief,  Olympia,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — I  have  just  arrived  at  this  place,  on  my  return  from  Salem 
and  Oregon  City,  where  I  have  been  .  recruiting  for  the  Southern  battal 
ion.  I  have  succeeded  in  raising  probably  fifty,  who  will  be  here  on  Wed 
nesday  next,  which,  with  Achilles'  company,  (supposed  about  thirty  men) 
will  equal  eighty  strong. 

The  withdrawal  of  Maxon's  company,  has  much  embarrassed  me,  as 
it  leaves  me  without  a  sufficient  force  to  carry  out  your  orders.  I  have 
provisions  and  transportation  now  for  200  men  for  four  months,  all  com 
plete.  We  only  wait  your  orders  to  ship  to  the  Dalles  arms  and  revolv- 
vers.  Sufficient  have  been  purchased  to  arm  those  who  may  be  unable  to 
do  so  for  themselves. 

Most  of  the  men  from  Oregon  will  come  fully  equipped  with  horses, 


240 

arms,  <fce.,  for  the  Yakima  expedition .  If,  however,  they  should  be  ord 
ered  to  the  Sound,  it  would  probably  create  some  dissatisfaction  among 
them,  as  they  enlisted  with  the  express  understanding  that  they  were  to 
serve  on  the  eastern  side  of  the  Cascades.  Should  you,  however,  deem 
it  best  for  the  interest  of  the  service  that  their  destination  be  changed,  I 
will  endeavor  to  reconcile  them  to  the  change,  and  I  think  they  could  act 
with  good  effect  on  the  Nesqually  and  other  plains, 

I  do  not  wish  to  move  into  the  Yakirna  country  with  a  small  force, 
as  it  will  neither  .enable  me  to  carry  out  your  orders,  or  to  act  efficiently 
in  the  field.  I  have  no  time  to  write  more  as  the  steamer  leaves.  I 
await  your  orders. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Ass't.  Adj.  General. 


[No.  172.] 

EXECUTFV 

OLYMPIA,  March  12th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,  ) 


Lieut.  Col.  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Ass't.  Adj.  General,  Vancouver,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — I  have  determined  to  bring  over  your  battalion  to  this  quar 
ter,  and  the  necessary  order  will  go  by  this  express  from  the  Adjutant 
General. 

At  the  same  time,  the  service  will  remain  organized  on  the  Columbia, 
to  be  prepared  for  any  possible  contingency. 

I  shall  shortly  despatch  a  train  to  the  Nez  Perce  country,  with  sup 
plies  for  the  agent. 

In  the  probable  event  of  moving  across  the  mountains  from  this  quar 
ter,  supplies  advanced  from  the  Dalles,  should  meet  the  troops  at  Fort 
Walla  Walla,  and  possibly  in  the  Yakima  country. 

Hence  the  orders  to  have  supplies,  means  of  transportation  already 


engaged,  and  not  wanted  in  this  quarter,  cared  for,  and  hence  the  quar 
termaster's  post  at  the  Dalles  will  be  kept  up. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  173.] 

EXECUTIVE 

Olympia,  April  16th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,  ) 


Lieut.  Col.   SHAW, 

SIR  : — You  have  been  elected  Lieut.  Col.  of  the  Central  and  South 
ern  battalions,  and  will  assume  command  of  the  same. 

Capt.  Swindall,  now  in  command  of  the  Central  battalion,  has  been 
ordered  to  establish  a  block-house  at  South  prairie,  to  open  a  communica 
tion  with  the  force  moving  up  the  Nesqually,  and  in  his  future  movements, 
to  be  governed  by  your  orders.  !j  -,  ... 

Major  Van  Bokkelin  is  under  orders  to  scout  to  the  Nachess  pass, 
to  ascertain  the  depth  of  snow,  and  whether  Indians  are  in  that  vicinity. 
Use  your  best  judgment  in  managing  the  troops;  push  up  the  Nes- 
qually;  endeavor  to  reach  the  waters  flowing  to  the  Yakima;  establish 
block-houses ;  make  reports  as  often  as  practicable,  and  from  time  to  time, 
requisitions  for  supplies. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 
( Signed,;  ISAAC  I.. STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


242 

[No.  174.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 
OLYMPIA,    April,  1856.          j 

Lieut.  Col.  B.  F.  SHAW, 

SIR  : — In  pursuance  of  orders  from  this  office  to  the  Central  battal 
ion,  after  establishing  a  block-house  at  South  Prairie,  to  move  towards 
the  Michael's  Fork,  and  form  a  junction  with  you  on  the  line  of  the  Nes- 
qually  Capt.  Swindall  has  moved  by  way  of  Montgomery's,  and  is  now 
at  this  post. 

It  is  presumed  that  this  detour  from  the  direct  route  was  made  in 
consequence  of  the  difficulty  of  the  route — perhaps  from  want  of  the  ne 
cessary  tools  and  supplies. 

The  object  of  the  movement  was  to  connect  the  line  of  the  Duwa- 
mish  with  the  line  of  the  Nesqually  by  a  back  route,  to  facilitate  the  ra 
pid  concentration  of  troops  on  either  line,  and  also,  simply  keeping  in  the 
block-houses  already  established,  a  guard,  to  throw  the  whole  available 
force  on  this  line  of  the  Nesqually,  with  a  view  of  opening  communica 
tions  and  establishing  posts. 

The  great  object  is  to  open  the  line  of  the  Nesqually,  so  as  not  only 
to  ascertain  its  relations  with  the  trails  leading  from  its  head  waters  to 
the  Cowlitz  river,  to  Lewis  river,  to  Vancouver,  the  Cascades  and  the 
Yakima,  but  absolutely  to  open  and  establish  these  communications  with 
the  whole  available  force  of  your  command. 

To  this  end,  in  addition  to  the  Pioneers,  a  large  working  party  will 
be  required.  Several  block-houses  will  have  to  be  built.  One,  it  is  sup 
posed,  on  the  Michael's  branch  of  the  Nesqually,  one  intermediate  be 
tween  that  and  South  prairie,  supposing  it  to  be  practicable,  to  open  a 
direct  communication  by  a  back  route,  one  high  up  the  Nesqually  at  the 
point  of  divergence  of  trails,  and  perhaps  an  intermediate  post  between 
Michael's  and  Montgomery's. 

Your  attention  is  particularly  called  to  the  question  of  establishing 
a  post  at  McLoud's,  or  at  the  farthest  points  of  the  settlements  in  that 
general  quarter. 

The  Lewis  county  company  have  orders  to  operate  up  the  Cowlitz, 
and  to  open  a  communication  with  your  command  on  the  line  of  the  Nis- 
qually. 

The  whole  field  is  thus  before  you,  and  it  is  not  doubted  that  you 
will  pursue  it  with  your  known  energy  and  judgment.  If  you  are  in 
doubt  as  to  the  views  at  head-quarters  nevertheless,  act  according  to 
your  best  judgment,  and  report  the  result  to  this  office.  You  will,  of 
course,  bear  in  mind,  that  the  great  object  of  establishing  posts  and  roads 


243 

is  to  occupy  the  country,  and  beat  back  the  enemy,  and  that  an  officer 
never  makes  a  mistake  in  pushing  that  enemy,  and  striking  a  blow. 

Make  your  requisitions  for  supplies  upon  the  Quartermaster  General, 
and  the  quartermasters  of  posts,  and  report  the  disposition  of  your  com 
mand  with  other  facts  to  this  office  as  frequently  as  possible. 
Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No,  175.] 

EXECUTIVE 

OLYMPIA,  May  llth,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 


Capt.  F.  M.  P.  GOFF: 

Com'gCo.  K,  W.  T.  V.,  Portland,  O.  T.: 

SIR  : — You  have  already  received  orders  from  Lieut.  Col.  Shaw,  to 
increase  your  company  to  one  hundred  men,  to  push  forward  to  the  Dalles, 
and  take  up  your  line  of  march  for  the  Walla  Walla  at  the  earliest  prac 
ticable  period. 

Lieut.  Col.  James  K.  Hurd,  Assistant  Quartermaster  and  Commis 
sary  General,  is  now  on  his  way  to  the  Columbia  river,  t,o  take  general 
charge  of  transportation  and  supplies  in  that  quarter,  and  to  urge  for 
ward  your  expedition  so  far  as  his  department  has  to  render  facilities. 

^      V  *i  ^     \^* 

Capt.  A.  H.  Robie  will  be  the  quartermaster  and  commissary  of 
the  expedition.  He  is  now  stationed  at  the  Dalles,  and  is  in  every  res 
pect,  competent  to  the  position. 

In  anticipation  of  more  full  instructions,  I  will  state  that  you  will 
move  to  the  Walla  Walla  valley,  establish  a  depot  at  Whitman's  valley, 
or  in  the  general  vicinity,*  and  hold  the  valley  against  any  efforts  of  the 
Indians  to  dispossess  you.  A  large  wagon  train  will  accompany  you  to 
furnish  supplies  for  your  command,  for  the  Nez  Perce  auxiliaries,  and  for 
any  force  which,  moving  across  the  Cascades,  may  meet  you  in  that 
valley. 

Truly  and  respectfully  yours, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief 


244 

[No.  176.] 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  CAMP  MONTGOMERY,  ) 
May  16th,  1856.  ) 

Gov.   ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Commander-in-Chief  Volunteer  Forces : 

SIR  : — I  think  that  it  would  be  well  for  me  to  fit  out  my  train,  and 
have  it  in  readiness  for  crossing  over  the  mountains  as  early  as  possible. 
Please  let  me  know  what  you  think  of  the  plan  by  next  express. 
I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,)  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Lt.  Col.  Com.  Right  Wing,  2d  Beg.  W.  T.  V. 


[NO.  mi 

EXECUTIVE  OF 

Olympia,  May  18,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,  | 


Lieut.  Col.  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Com-dg  Right  Wing,  2d  Regt.  W.  T.  V.: 

SIR  : — Have  your  train  ready  to  move  with  three  companies  of  horse 
men  across  the  mountains,  but  make  no  special  change  in  their  positions, 
except  those  indicated  in  orders  of  this  date  for  the  protection  of  the  set 
tlements.  The  movement  cannot  be  made  till  the  commission  is  through, 
and  it  is  a  question  whether  all  the  troops  at  this  juncture  are  not  needed 

here. 

• 

We  will  be  prepared  for  either  contingency.  For  the  renewal  of  the 
war  here,  or  for  crossing  the  mountains  and  waging-  the  war  there.  Ten 
days  or  a  fortnight,  will  determine  the  matter.  Therefore  keep  a  sharp 
look  out,  and  be  ready  for  a  movement. 

Truly,  your  obedient  servant, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
•  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


245 

[No.  178.]. 

CAMP  MONTGOMERY,  May  22st,  1856. 

His  Excellency,  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Olympia  : 

SIR  : — -I  called  a  council  of  the  officers  of  the  Central  and  Southern 
battalions  now  at  this  post,  to  take  into  consideration  the  expediency  of 
a  movement  across  the  mountains. 

The  following  was  the  result : 

We  unanimously  concluded  that  the  expedition  is  highly  necessary, 

for  the  following  reasons  : 

< 

1st  Our  crossing  the  mountains  with  our  horse  will  force  Colonel 
Casey  to  remain  here  with  his  foot,  or  rather,  it  will  devolve  the  necessity 
of  protecting  the  settlements  on  him. 

But  if  we  remain  here  until  he  starts,  then  we  will  be  forced  to  re 
main  and  protect  the  settlements,  while  he  will  march  a  force  of  footmen 
into  a  country,  where  horsemen  are  alone  needed,  thus  rendering  both 
forces  inefficient. 

2d.  Yakimas  are  the  ruling  power  among  the  Indians,  in  this  war, 
and  hence  the  necessity  of  breaking  their  main  body  before  we  can  attack 
them  in  detail. 

3d.  Col.  Wright,  with  his  footmen,  cannot  follow  them  if  he  does 
whip  them. 

4th.  By  remaining  here,  we  can  never  know  what  our  enemy  is  do 
ing  one  hundred  and  fifty  miles  off. 

5th.     The  volunteers  must  make  a  fight  before  going  out  of  service. 

6th.  With  the  troops  that  are  left,  we  can,  with  good  management, 
effectually  protect  them. 

7th.  It  is  necessary  to  have  depots  of  provisions  in  the  Yakima 
country  before  winter. 

8th.    The  enemy  on  this   side  of  the  mountains  has  been  repeatedly 
defeated,  whilst  on  the  other  side,  he  has  never  been  checked. 
(Signed,;  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Lt.  Col.  Com.  Right  Wing,  2d  Regt.  W.  T.  V. 


246 

[No.  179.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  W.  T.,      ) 
May  31st,  1856.  J 

Lt.  Col.  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Com.  Right  Wing,  2d  Reg.  W.  T.  V,: 

SIR  : — I  have  received  your  letter  of  this  date,  presenting  the  views 
of  a  council  of  officers  held  at  Montgomery's,  unanimously  advising  a 
movement  over  the  Nachess  into  the  Yakima  country.  » 

I  am  well  assured  therefore,  that  should  it  be  decided  to  make  the 
movement,  it  will  be  cordially  responded  to. 

Gen.  Miller  has  been  for  some  days  vigorously  preparing  the  trans 
portation  and  supplies,  to  be  in  readiness  for  the  movement. 

Lt.  Col.  Casey  starts  to-morrow  morning  two  companies  of  regulars 
to  re-inforce  Col.  Wright.  They  go  by  the  route  of  the  Cowlitz  and 
Columbia. 

Truly  and  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient., 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[  No.  180.  ] 

Extracts  from  letters  from  Gov,.  Isaac  I.  Stevens,  Commander -in- Chief,  to 
Lieut.  Col.  B.  F.  Shaw,  Commanding  Right  Wing  2d  Regiment 
Washington  Territory  Volunteers,  under  date  of  May  %Qtk  and  %lst, 
1856. 

ft<-afc?n"f  ftfo.-jti    Wn>; /or*!  V>  **i*r>fj    ',,-«;»:    <v?  ••    >i  Jf 

May  20th,  1856. 
*,***  #*** 

Y*f>  •'*..  •  ." 

All  the  tribes  at  war  east  of  the  Cascades  are  collected 
on  the  Nachess  to  fight  Col.  Wright.  Reinforcements  will  probably 
reach  him  to-morrow. 

If  possible  get  an  express  over  the  Nahchess  pass  to  communicate 
with  Col.  Wright. 

*  *  * 


247 

[  No.  181.  ] 

May  21st,  1856. 
*  *  ****** 

*  *  Get  an  express  over  the  mountains  if  possible,  but  k 

it  a  secret  in  camp. 

*  *  * 

*  * 


[  No.  182.  ] 

HEAD  QUARTER 

May  22d,  1856. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  CAMP  MONTGOMERY,  ) 


Gov.  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Commander-in-Chief : 

SIR  : — I  send  the  express  to  Col.  Wright  by  Messrs.  Coffee  and 
Sharp.     They  will  return  if  possible. 

Yours  respectfully, 
(Signed,)  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Lieut.  Col,  Com'g.  Right  Wing  2d  Reg't.  W.  T.  Y. 


ta** 

..if  ii-V. -,-,'"•       •-•jrj  '  •'*       ^ 


[  No.  183,  ] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  W,  T., ) 
June  1st,  1856.         ) 

Capt.  F.  M.  P.  GOFF, 

Com'g.  Co.  K.,  W.  T.  Mounted  Volunteers  : 

SIR  : — Your  communication  of  the  26th  ultimo  has  been  received. 

In  compliance  with  your  request  you  are  authorized  to  increase  your 
force  to  112  men  in  each  company,  and  to  elect  an  additional  2d  Lieut. 

Although  it  is  desirable  to  obtain  the  force  you  think  you  can  raise, 


248 

there  should  be  no  delay  on  account  of  it.  It  is  of  the  utmost  importance 
to  push  forward  as  soon  as  possible,  and  you  should  by  no  means  wait  to 
increase  your  force  to  the  number  you  have  asked  authority  to  raise,  but 
on  the  contrary,  march  as  soon  as  the  number  it  was  originally  proposed 
to  raise  are  ready  to  move. 

Very  respectfully, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[  No.  184.  j 

HEAD  ^ 

June  5th,  1856. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  FORT  HICKS,  ) 


Adj't  General  JAMES  TILTON, 

Washington  Territory  Volunteers,  Olympia  : 

SIR  : — I  returned  late  last  night  from  the  Snoqualmie  prairie,  and  beg 
leave  to  make  the  following  report  of  the  country  between  that  country 
and  Council's  prairie. 

A  wagon  road  is  utterly  impracticable  in  the  time  mentioned  in  your 
instructions  to  Lieut.  Huger.  At  Porter's  prairie,  there  is  at  least  three 
miles  of  mud  to  go  through,  where  the  wagons  would  sink  up  to  the  hubs, 
and  probably  have  to  double  teams.  At  Green  river,  on  both  sides,  on 
Green  river  again,  after  leaving  Frog  Pond,  at  Sallal  prairie,  on  both 
sides,  and  at  Cedar  creek,  there  will  be  required  very  heavy  grading  to 
render  the  road  at  all  available.  The  timber  on  the  greater  part  of  the 
road  has  been  burnt,  and  has  fallen,  and  will  require  a  great  deal  of  cut 
ting,  as  well  as  the  small  growing  firs,  of  which  there  is  a  great  deal. 

I  would,  therefore,  recommend  that  a  pack  trail  be  cut  out  instead 
of  a  wagon  road,  which  will  be  comparatively  easy.  A  fatigue  party  of 
about  thirty  men  could  soon  clear  a  trail,  which  would  enable  the  animals 
to  go  on  without  fatigue. 

The  stores  could  be  transported  up  the  Snoqualmie  river  at  much 
less  expense  than  by  ox  teams.  Canoes  can  be  procured,  which  would  be 
able  to  carry  from  one  to  three  thousand  pounds.  The  pack  animals  and 
the  men  could  march  by  the  trail. 

There  is  grass  at  Noscope  prairie,  sufficient  for  the  animals  for  one 
night.  This  is  four  miles  from  Green  river. 

At  Frog  Pond,  there  is  not  grass  enough.     At  Sallal  prairie,  no 


249 

grass,  and  thence  no  grass  until  we  reach  Rattlesnake  prairie,  which  con 
tains  about  enough  for  two  days7  consumption  of  the  number  of  animals 
which  we  will  have. 

Snoqualmie  prairieris  eight  miles  from  Rattlesnake  prairie,  and  is  a 
magnificent  one.  It  is  directly  on  the  banks  of  the  river— is  four  miles 
long,  by  about  one  broad,  and  is  covered  with  splendid  grass,  intermixed 
with  pea  vine,  of  which  the  animals  are  extremely  fond. "  The  gentlemen 
of  the  ^Northern  battalion  informed  me  that  there  were  at  least  ten  thou 
sand  acres  of  prairie  about  the  forks  of  the  river,  and  not  far  from  their 
camp.  The  soil  is  remarkably  rich — no  gravel, 

The  stores  could  be  transported  to  Fort  Tilton,  below  the  falls  in 
three  days.  This  is  the  fort  four  miles  from  the  prairie,  on  the  opposite 
side  of  the  river.  There  is  a  pack  trail  between  the  two,  and  a  ford  at 
the  prairie. 

The  summit  of  the  pass  is  thirty-five  miles  from  Rattlesnake  prairie, 
by  a  good  trail  and  very  little  snow,  not  more  than  two  miles  altogether. 
I  could  not  go  to  examine  it  for  want  of  time. 

I  wish  to  be  understood,  that  in  reporting  a  wagon  road  as  imprac 
ticable,  it  is  merely  for  the  want  of  time,  as  with  time  and  men  a  very  fine 
road  could  be  made. 

Respectfully, 
(Signed,)  W.  W.  DeLACY, 

Captain  T.  B.  W.  T.  V. 


[No.  185.1 

EXECUTIVE  ( 

Olympia,  June  5th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 


Lieut.  Col.  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Com.  Right  Wing  W.  T.  V.,  Fort  Hicks,  W.  T.: 
SIR  : — The  information  received  from  Capt.  DeLacy  has  determined 
me  to  abandon  the  movement  by  the  Snoqualmie.     Your  views  as  to  mo 
ving  over  the  Xachess  are   adopted.     It  is  important   that  every  thing 


250 

should  be  pushed  with  all  possible  vigor.    The  orders  for  the  movement 
will  go  from  the  office  of  the  Adjutant  General  to-day. 

It  is  doubtful  whether  all  the  powder  you  ask  for  can  possibly  be 
procured  from  Olyrnpia.  I  enclose  a  requisition  on  Col.  Casey  for  an 
amount  not  exceeding  two  hundred  pounds.  I  trust,  if  he  has  that 
amount  to  spare  for  a  brief  period,  that  he  will  see  his  way  clear  to  fur 
nish  it. 

I  will  purchase  every  pound  that  can  be  got  in  the  town  of  Steila- 
coom. 

The  ammunition,  powder,  balls,  caps,  &c.r  shah1  be  sent  out 
row. 

I  am.,,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant,. 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Gw.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  186.] 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  FORT  HICKS,    > 
June  5th,  1856.         > 

Adjutant  General  JAMES  TILTOK, 

W.  T.  Volunteers,  Olympia  : 

SIR  : — Capt.  DeLacy  has  now  returned,  and  as  you  will  perceive  by 
the  enclosed  report,  states  that  a  wagon  road  is  impracticable  to  the  Sno- 
qualmie,  in  time  to  be  of  service. 

Now,  as  everything  is  ready,  and  the  wagon  train  on  hand,  I  pro*- 
pose  to  abandon  the  Snoqualmie  route,,  push  the  wagon  train  on  to  the 
foot  of  the  Nachess  pass  with  the  provisions,  load  the  pack  animals  with 
forage,  and  cross  at  that  point  without  further  delay. 

The  difficulties  in  the  way  appear  to  me  to  be  exaggerated.  White 
river  is  now  low,  and  easily  passed,  and  a  little  energy  and  determination 
will  carry  us  through.  From  the  report  concerning  the  amount  of  snow 
on  the  Snoqualmie,  I  am  convinced  that  we  will  find  no  great  obstacle  in 
that  on  the  Nachess  pass.  The  term  of  enlistment  is  getting  short,  and 
what  we  have  to  do  must  be  done  shortly  or  not  at  all. 


251 

I  shall,  therefore,  move  on  to  the  Nachess  pass  immediately,  with 
the  wagons,  unless  I  receive  orders  to  the  contrary,  and  direct  my  march 
to  that  point.  Time  will  be  saved  by  it. 

The  pack  train  will  be  ready  to  move  in  two  or  three  days,  and  all 
the  packs  will  have  to  be  taken  tyick  to  Steilacoom  if  we  were  to  move 
by  the  Snoqualmie. 

If  you  can  get  me  one  of  the  two  Klikatat  spies  now  ifi  Olympia, 
I  think  I  can  use  him  to  advantage. 

Please  send  me  definitive  information  on  these  points. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 

(SignedJ  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Lieut.  Col.  Com.  Right  Wing  W.  T.  V. 


[No.  187.] 

EXECUTIVE  ( 

OLYMPIA,  June  5th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,  ) 


Lieut.  Col.  B.  R  SHAW, 

Fort  Hicks,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — You  will  turn  over  to  Col.  Casey,  the  posts  on  the  Puyallup, 
on  Connell's,  and  South  prairies.  Col.  Casey  has  agreed  to  receive  them, 
as  soon  as  his  wagons  return  from  the  Cowlitz.  They  will  probably  be 
back  day  after  to-morrow. 

Col.  Casey  will  also  receive  Fort  Hicks,  and  the  post  at  the  Yelni. 
I  have  advised  him,  that  as  we  have  large  quantities  of  stores  at  both 
places,  we  should  need  them  for  the  present,  but  that  I  hoped  to  be  able 
to  make  arrangements  to  turn  over  Fort  Hicks  at  an  early  period,  and 
the  Yelu  as  soon  as  the  safety  of  the  settlements  would  permit  the  dis 
banding  of  the  volunteers. 

I  am  quite  confident  I  wrote  to  you  to  this  effect  some  two  or  three 
days  since,  but  the  letter  has  probably  been  misplaced. 
Yery  respectfully,  &c., 

ISAAC  I.  STEYENS, 

Gov.  and  Com.  in-Chief. 


252 

[No.  188.] 

DALLES,  O.  T.,  June  18th,  1856. 

Lieut.  Col.  B.  P.  SHAW, 

Com.  Right  Wing  W.  T.  Volunteers,  Yakima  country: 

SIR  : — When  you  have,  in  conjunction  with  Col.  Wright  of  the  reg 
ular  troops,  transferred  the  seat  of  war  from  the  Yakima  country  proper 
to  the  interior,  you  will  push  to  the  Walla  Walla  and  cross  the  Columbia 
at  Fort  Walla  Walla. 

The  troops  and  train  will  move  from  this  point  on  the  20th,  and  two 
boats  will  be  at  Fort  Walla  Walla  on  the  30th  instant,  for  ferrying  over 
your  command. 

Arrived  at  the  Walla  Walla,  you  will  use  every  exertion  to  strengthen 
the  Nez  Perces  and  the  Spokanes,  who  are  friendly,  and  to  bring  to  un 
conditional  submission  the  Cayuses  and  Palouses. 

If  these  latter  will  deliver  up  the  principal  instigators  of  the  war,  it 
being  understood  that  they  are  to  be  executed  by  hanging,  the  rest  may 
be  admitted  to  mercy. 

The  young  chief,  (head  chief  of  the  Cayuses,)  Five  Crows,  Til-co- 
wy-icks,  Stoonch,  Ume-howlish,  Wild  Cat,  and  some  fourteen  others,  will 
have  to  be  summarily  dealt  with. 

You  will  use  every  exertion  to  bring  the  war  to  a  close  by  the  giving 
over  of  these  men  for  punishment. 

The  Indians  will  be  placed  on  a  reservation  near  your  post,  in  the 
Walla  Walla  valley. 

I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  189.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,          ) 
June  3d,  1856.  f 

Capt.  J1.  M.  P.  GOFF, 

Com.  Co.  K,  W.  T.  V.: 

SIB  : — You  will  move  forward  to  the  Walla  Walla  valley,  and  estab- 


253 

lisb  a  block-house  in  good  grazing,  say  at  Whitman's  old  mission,  or  on 
Mill  creek.  Build  two  strong  corrals,  one  for  horses,  one  for  oxen.  The 
animals  must  be  carefully  guarded,  as  there  is  great  danger  of  the  Indi 
ans  stealing  them,  and  great  pains  must  be  taken  to  keep  the  horses  in 
good  condition. 

Capt.  W.  H.  Pearsons,  as  soon  as  he  can  get  through  in  safety, 
will  go  forward  to  the  Nez  Perces  country,  and  you  will  furnish  him  a 
small  escort. 

Lieut.  Col.  Craig,  my  aid- de-camp,  will,  on  receipt  of  my  orders,  des 
patched  by  Capt.  Pearson,  with  his  volunteer  company,  (mostly  In 
dian  auxiliaries)  march  to  the  Walla  Walla  to  meet  and  confer  with  you 
as  to  the  military  operations,  and  to  secure  that  flank  from  the  hostiles. 

I  will  bring  to  your  notice  the  following  suggestions  as  to  the  ope 
rations  necessary  to  hold  possession  of  the  valley,  and  get  early  informa 
tion  of  the  enemy. 

A  picket  should  be  established  at  Fort  Walla  Walla.  One  near  the 
mouth  of  the  Palouse:  say  at  moutb  of  the  Tucannon,  and  one  at  the 
point  where  the  Tucannon  approaches  very  closely  to  Snake  river.  The 
post  should  be  on  the  Snake.  Col.  Craig  is  furnished  with  the  location. 

The  distance  between  Fort  Walla  Walla  and  the  Tucannon  is  over 
fifty  miles,  therefore  scouts  from  these  posts  should  watch  this  part  of  the 
line  closely. 

Col.  Craig  will  bring  with  him  pack  animals  to  carry  up  supplies  for 
the  interior.  At  least  5,000  pounds  flour,  500  pounds  coffee,  and  100 
pounds  sugar,  with  small  stores;  also,  bacon,  salt,  soap,  and  clothing. 
He  may  bring  transportation  for  double  that  amount. 

Measures  should  be  taken  to  keep  open  the  communication  between 
the  Nez  Perce  country  and  the  post  at  Walla  Walla  and  your  command. 

Lieut.  Col.  B.  F.  Shaw  moves  forward  in  a  few  days  with  three  - 
companies  of  the  2d  regiment  to  push  across  the   Cascades  by  the  Sno- 
qualmie  pass,  and  thence  down  the  Yakima. 

A  post  will  be  established  on  the  summit  of  the  Snoqualmie  Pass. 

There  will  be  two  posts  high  up  on  the  western  slope  to  be  held  by 
Major  Yan  Bokkelin,  and  one  post  high  up  the  Yakima,  on  the  eastern 
slope. 

Lieut.  Col.  Shaw  will  take  general  command  of  operations  east  of 
the-  Cascades. 

I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS. 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Cluef. 


254 

[No.  190.] 

DALLES,  O.  T.,  June  24th,  1866. 

Capt.  P.  M.  P.  GOFP, 

Camp  on  jthe  Columbia : 

SIR  : — Capt.  A.  H.  Robie  is  the" 'quartermaster  and  commissary~of 
the  expedition  about  rendezvouiug  in  the  Walla  Walla  valley,  and  mov 
ing  thither  in  two  columns,  one  from  this  point  undertyonr  command,  and 
the  other  under  the  immediate  orders^of  Lieut.  Col.  B.  F.  Shaw,  and  in 
command  of  the  expedition. 

Capt.  A..  H.  Robie  has  also,  as  special  agent  of  the  Indian  depart 
ment,  the  charge  of  a  large  pack  train  of  Indian  supplies  for  the  service 
of  the  interior,  the  men  also  being  \inder  his  control  as  employees  of  the 
Indian  service. 

You  have  the^military^conHnand  of  the,j  column  moving  from  this 
point,  and  in  your  absence  on  detached  service,  the  command  will  devolve 
upon  Capt.  Robie. 

The  main  object  had  in  view  .by  your  command  is  to  eseort'the  In 
dian  supplies  to  the  interior,  and  to  establish'a  depot  and! post  of  opera 
tions  for  the  whole  command  In  the  Walla  Walla  valley. 

You  will,  however,  strike'the  enemy^  wherever  you^may  find  him,  it 
being  borne  in  mind  that  it  is  important  to  reach  the  Walla  Walla  in  ten 
days,  and  have  in  readiness  at  Fort  Walla  Walla,  the  >  boats  now  going 
up  to  ferry  across  the  Columbia  the  column  [under  the  immediate  con> 
mand  of  Lieut.  Col.  Shaw. 

I  am,  very  respectfully, 
(Signed,)  I  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS,: 

Gov.  and  Com.-in-Chief,  W.  T.  V. 


[No.  191.] 

DALLES  O.  T.,  June  24th,  1856. 

Jjieut.  COL.  WM.  CRAIG, 

Sub.  Indian  Ageat,  Lapwai,  Nez  Per ce  country : 
SIR  : — The  train  starts  Ao-morrow  morning — 40  wagons — 80,rpack 


265 

animals — with  an  escort  of  It5  men.  The  whole  force,  volunteers,  quar 
termaster's  employees  and  Indian  employees  will  be  250  men.  They  take 
boats  to  establish  a  ferry  at  Fort  Walla  Walla,  where  Col.  Shaw  will 
cross  with  200  men. 

It  is  expected  thtft  tfre  whole  force  will  concentrate  hi  the  Walla- 
Walla  valley,  say  on  Mill  creek,  about  the  2d  ©f  3d  of  July. 

I  huve  a  large  amount  of  Indian  supplies  for  you,  and  can  push  up  a 
train  to  the  Nez  Perce  country  of  ninety  odd  pack  animals.  The  sup 
plies  will  mostly  consist  of  provisions,  flour,  sugar,  coffee,  &c.  There 
will  be  a  large  amounV  of  ammunition,  and  a  considerable  quantity  of 
Indian  goods. 

For  the  permanent  service  of  your  agency,  there  is  a  special  train  in 
charge  of  Hans.  Tilton,  Esq.,  and  for  the  main  bulk  of  the  supplies,  a 
train  in  charge  of  Capt.  Robie. 

Should  It  be  safe  to  come  to  Wafla  Walla,  you  will  move  down  with 
the  Volunteer  company  and  with  all  the  pack  animals  you  can  raise. 

There  will  be  ten  thousand  rations  of  flour,  sugar  and  coffee,  and 
small  stores  for  the  Indian  service,  and  you  can  have  two  thousand  pounds 
of  bacon. 

Should  it  not  be  safe,  the  train  will  be  pushed  up  to  you  with  a  suit 
able  escort 

On  the  arrival  of  H  Capt.  John,"  you  will  make  your  arrangements 
and  send  an  express  to  the  valley,  indicating  the  proper  mode  of  bringing 
up  supplies, 

****** 

****** 

Very  respectfully, 

YOUP  obedient  servant, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS. 
Gov.andSup.  Indian  Affaire,  W.  T! 


[No.  198.] 

DALLES-,  0.  T.,  June  30th,  185,6. 

Lieut.  Col.  JB.  F.  SHAW, 

Coni.  R.   Wingf  W.  T.  V.,  and  in  charge  of  operations  east  of 

the  Cascade  Mountains : 
SIR  : — The  column  moving  from  this  point  irad«r  Capt.  Goff,  camped 


256 

last  night  "atJWell  Spriugs,  and  is  expected  to  reach  the  Walla  Walla 
valley  on  Friday  evening,  July  4th.  The  force  consists  of  170  men.  The 
train  is  42  wagons,  91  pack  animals,  and  about  75  employees  ;  all  the 
packers  are  employees  in  the  Indian  service,  and  the  pack  train  will  be 
used  to  carry  supplies  from  the  Walla  Walla  to  the  JSTez  Perce  country. 

An  express  reached  Craig  at  Lapwai  on  Saturday,  June  28th,  ad 
vising  him  of  the  probable  arrival  of  the  train  at  Walla  Walla,  and  di 
recting  him  in  case  he  deemed  it  safe,  to  come  to  the  Walla  Walla,  with 
his  company  of  Nez  Perce  auxiliaries,  and  all  the  pack  animals  he  could 
muster,  to  take  back  supplies  for  the  Nez  Perces  and  Spokanes.  He  was 
informed  that  10,000  pounds  of  flour,  1,600  pounds  coffee,  3,000  pounds 
sugar,  &c.,  &c.,  could  be  spared.  If  it  were  not  safe  for  Craig  to  leave 
the  Nez  Perce  country,  he  was  ordered  to  send  word  to  that  effect  to  the 
Walla  Walla,  and  was  informed  that  the  supplies  would  be  pushed  up  by 
you  with  our  Indian  pack  train,  escorted  by  a  suitable  force. 

Capt.  A.  H.  Robie  has  full  instructions  from  me  as  to  the  supplies 
required  for  the  Nez  Perces. 

Craig  writes  me  in  rather  a  discouraging  tone  as  to  affairs  in  the 
upper  country.  The  surrounding  tribes  have  threatened  to  rub  out  the 
Nez  Perces  in  case  they  would  not  join  in  the  war,  and  at  one  time  last 
month,  the  Lawyer  said  he  could  rely  only  upon  his  own  band  and  the 
people  on  Salmon  river.  Since  word  has  reached  them  of  the  Walla 
Walla  expedition,  they  have  gathered  heart,  and  the  war  party  has  lost 
its  strength.  Garry  and  the  Spokanes  on  the  23d  May,  gave  a  decided 
negative  to  Kam-i-akin's  overture  to  join  him  to  drive  Col.  Wright  out  of 
the  country. 

The  hostile  Cayuses  are  with  the  Spokanes,  and  the  latter  have  inter 
ceded  with  me  in  behalf  of  the  former. 

If  the  Cayuses  will  unconditionally  submit  to  the  justice  of  the  gov 
ernment  and  give  up  the  instigators  of  the  war  to  punishment,  there  will 
be  no  difficulty  in  the  matter.  It  is  useless  and  trifling  to  exact  less. 

Craig  has  orders  as  Indian  agent,  to  visit  the  Spokanes,  to  explain 
the  reason  why  I  cannot  go  among  them  this  season,  and  to  do  every 
thing  in  his  power  to  conciliate  them  and  prevent  their  joining  the  war 
party.  He  will  visit  Colville  and  the  Cceur  d'Alene  mission. 

If  it  should  be  necessary  in  your  judgment,  you  will  furnish  him  with 
an  escort.  The  trip  I  deem  of  very  great  consequence. 

Should  the  surrounding  tribes  have  combined  on  your  reaching  Wal 
la  Walla,  and  have  taken  a  hostile  attitude  towards  the  Nez  Perces,  you 
will  take  the  most  decisive  measures  to  nip  the  combination  in  the  bud. 

Capt.  G-off,  on  his  way  up  to  the  Walla  WTalla,  is  expected,  in  con 
junction  with  Major  Layton,  to  strike  a  band  of  some  three  hundred  hos- 


257 

tiles  at  the  head  of  John  Day's  river.  A  band  of  Snakes  is  in  the  party, 
and  the  Snakes  generally  are  hostile.  I  hope  Layton  and  Groff  will  give 
a-  good  account  of  themselves.  - 

You  will  do  all  you  can  to  keep  up  your  strength  in  the  Walla  Wal 
la  valley.  But  the  troops  whose  terms  of  service  will  expire  the  last  of 
this  month,  will  be  returned  home  by  the  Columbia  valley,  and  will  escort 
to  the  Dalles  the  wagon  train,  except  such  few  wagons  as  will  be  required 
in  the  valley  and  on  the  return  of  the  troops. 

They  should  pass  to  the  Willamette  valley  by  the  emigrant  road. 

You  should  send  a  staff  officer  ahead,  in  order  that  arrangements  for 
suppMes  at  this  point  may  be  made. 

Be  sure  to  express  often  to  this  point.  I  have  secured  the  services 
of  Mclntosh  as  expressman. 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant,          ;    . 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEYENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  193] 

CAMP  ON  WEN>ASS,  June  22d,  1856. 

JAMES  TILTON,  Esq., 

Adj.  General  W..T. , Y.,  Olympia  : 

SIR  : — I  arrived  here  on  20th  inst.,  without  loosing  more  than  one 
animal,  the  road  being  good  for  a  mountain  road. 

Immediately  on  my  arrival,  I  sent  out  scouting  parties  in  all  directions 
so  as  to  gain  all  the  information  that  could  be  obtained.  The  men  all  re 
turned  last  evening  without  seeing  any  Indians,  but  found  Col.  Wright 
encamped  on  the  upper  Yakima,  with  eight  companies  of  regulars.  I  re 
ceived  no  information  through  that  officer,  but  learned  through  the  camp 
that  Col.  Wright  had  held  a  council  at  which  tlie  following  chiefs  were 
present  :  Owhi,  Te-i-as,  Tqualston,  alias  Owhi-'s  son,  Sha-wy-wy,  Yak- 
irnas.  Leschi,  Kitsap,  and  Xelson,  and  some  other  Sound  Indians  that 
are  of  less  importance  among  the  Indians. 
33 


The  Col.  failed  to  make  a  treaty  with  them,  and  on  receiving  his  pro 
posals  the  Indians  left  for  parts  unknown.  It  is,  however,  rumored  that 
Leschi  and  some  others  have  crossed  over  to  the  west  side  of  the  mount 
ains  again.  This  is  uncertain,  but  may  be  true.  It  would  be  well  to 
keep  a  good  lookout  for  them,  and  also  to  offer  a  good  reward  for  the 
heads  of  all  these  chiefs.  Blankets  will  turn  any  Indians  on  the  side  of 
the  whites.  Give  this  information  to  all  the  troops  so  that  they  may  all 
be  ready  in  case  the  information  proves  true. 

I  shall  remain  here  a  few  days,  and  send  out  scouts  on  the  different 
trails,  and  learn  if  possible  where  the  Indians  have  gone.  If  I  find  they 
have  gone  east,  I  will  move  to  Walla  Walla.  I  will  remain  here  five  or 
six  days,  and  if,  in  that  time,  I  find  the  Indians,  will  attack  them. 

The  men  are  in  good  health,  and  the  animals  look  as  well  as  can  be 
expected  on  such  a  trip. 

Respectfully,  &c., 
(Signed,)  B.  P.  SHAW, 

Lieut.  Col.  Com'dg,  Right  Wing,  W.  T.  Y. 


[No.  194'.] 

CAMP  OPPOSITE  Fotfr  WALLA  WALLA,    ) 
July  1st,   1856.  ) 

JAMES  TILTON,  ESQ., 

Adj't  Gen.  W.  T.  V.,  Olympia  : 

SIR  :— Since  I  addressed  you  on  the  22d  ult.,  the  command  has  con 
tinued  marching  until  its  arrival  yesterday  at  this  place. 

We  continued  down  the  Wenass  river  until  near  its  mouth,  meeting 
with  very  little  sign  of  Indians,  and  that  old,  and  then  turned  into  the 
valley  of  the  Yakima,  crossed  over  the  Attanam  and  Nachess  until  near 
the  big  bend  of  the  Yakima,  when  we  struck  directly  across  the  country 
in  a  N.  50°  E.  direction,  and  struck  the  Columbia  about  the  mouth  of  the 
Umatilla,  25  miles  below  this  place.  We  saw  no  Indians  until  yesterday, 
and  the  cattle  trails-  encountered  on  the  route  went  in  all  directions,  so 
that  it  was  impossible  to  tell'  which  way  the  Indians  had  gone,  and  were 
also  of  old  date. 


259 

Yesterday,  as  the  command  was  descending  a  hill  towards  the  river, 
two  canoes  were  seen  in  the  water  manned  by  four  Indians,  and  heavily 
loaded.  At  this  point  there  is  a  long  Island,  and  the  canoes  were  on  the 
side  nearest  to  us.  I  tried  to  induce  them  to  come  to  us,  but  finding  that 
they  would  not,  ordered  the  men  to  fire  on  them  in  hopes  of  driving  them 
from  their  canoes.  The  distance  was  great,  upwards  of  500  yards,  but 
the  firing  was  so  well  directed  that  they  were  forced  to  abandon  one  ca 
noe,  and  the  other  received  several  bullet  holes.  None  of  them  were 
hurt,  and  they  all  succeeded  in  escaping.  Private  Walker,  of  Miller's 
command,  then  swam  across,  and  brought  the  canoe  over,  in  which  we 
found  their  provisions,  bows  and  arrows  and  various,  small  articles.  I 
think  that  they  were  Chimpnapams,  a  branch  of  the  Walla  Walla  tribe, 
and  that  they  came  down  that  river. 

Capt.  Goff  has  not  yet  arrived,  nor  are  the  boats  here,  but  I  think 
he  must  be  on  the  road,  as  one  of  our  scouts  sent  from  the  camp  on  the 
river  preceding  this,  from  the  top  of  a  high  hill,  saw  far  on  the  opposite 
side  of  the  river,  a  great  dust,  which,  from  the  direction,  I  think  must 
have  been  the  Captain's  train  advancing  along  the  emigrant  road. 

As  soon  as  Capt  Goff  arrives,  I  intend  to  send  for  the  chiefs  of  the 
Nez  Perces  and  some  other  Indians,  probably  Spokanes,  and  also  send 
scouts  out,  and  by  them  I  shall  undoubtedly  find  out  in  what  direction 
the  hostile  Indians  have  really  gone.  My  own  opinion  is  that  they  have 
scattered  all  over  the  valleys  of  the  upper  Columbia  near  Okinagan, 
Priest's  Rapids,  Palouse  country,  &c.,  and  probably  some  of  them  may 
go  to  the  buffalo  country. 

I  should  have  mentioned  above  that  my  reason  for  coming  across  the 
country  direct,  was  that  I  was  informed  by  Cols,  Casey  and  Wright  that 
the  regular  troops  were  amply  sufficient  for  the  Yakima  and  west  side  of 
the  mountains,  so  that  this  is  the  only  ground  open  to  me.  The  express 
man  can  give  the  various  details  which  it  is  impossible  to  put  in  here. 
Should  anything  important  occur  I  will  write  you  fully  upon  it. 

,  J          *T*  *•*  ^  *t*  *f"  ^  *»*  *T* 

#*##  *### 

Respectfully, 
(Signed,)  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Lieut.  Col.  ComMg.  Right  Wing,  2d  Reg.  W.  T.  V. 


260 

[No.  195.] 

EXEC 

Olympia,  July  21st,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TER.  WASHINGTON,  ) 


Lieut,  Col.  B.  F.  SHAW, 
..i   - , 

Comd'g  forces  W.  T.  V.  east  of  the  Cascades : 

SIR  : — -Your  communication  of  the  12th  inst.,  is  received.  I  am 
much  gratified  with  your  success  in  reaching  the  Walla  Walla  valley. 

Y.our  council  with  the  Nez  Perces  was  the  proper  steps  to  take,  and 
cannot  but  produce  good  results.  The  Nez  Perces  have  always  been  firm 
friends  of  the  whites,  and  I  am  sure  they  will  ever  remain  so.  I  shall 
regard  the  Spotted  Eagle  as  a  great  chief.  His  people  recognized  him 
as  such,  and  he  does  not  lose  his  rank  by  aiding  the  Americans  in  this 
war.  The  great  chiefs  of  the  Nez  Perces  have  long  since  fought  side  by 
side  with  the  American  trappers  and  hunters  against  the  Blackfeet  and 
other  tribes,  and  furthermore,  >it  was  necessary  that  the  Nez  Perces 
should  organize  as  volunteers  in  order  to  protect  themselves  and  their 
friends,  the  Americans,  in  their  own  country.  You  can  say  this  to  the 
Spotted  Eagle,  and  the  ISTez  Perces — that  we  shall  always  be  friends,  and 
that  I  justly  appreciate  their  services. 

I  shall  send  to  you  for  the  army  20,000  pounds  flour,  5,000  pounds 
bacon,  2,000  pounds  coffee,  4,000  pounds  sugar,  and  small  stores  to  cor 
respond,  if  they  can  possibly  be  procured.  v  r ' 

The  same  amount,  excepting  the  bacon,  will  be  sent  up  for  the  Indi 
an  service.  But  little  bacon  can  be  sent  you.  You  must  depend  mainly 
on  beef.  Beef  should  be  killed  and  dried  immediately  for  the  use  of 
scouting  parties. 

As  you  have  fresh  and  dried  beef,  rations  of  flour  for  the  army  must 
be  reduced  to  two-thirds  or  one-half  pound  per  day.  There  is  great  diffi 
culty  in  purchasing  supplies  for  scrip. 

The  Indian  provisions  are  consigned  to  special  agent  A.  H.  Robie. 
The  object  of  these  provisions  is  two-fold.  Frst,  in  order  to  supply  the 
Nez  Perce  Agency.  Second,  to  supply  the  Indians  who  may  surrender 
and  be  collected  in  the  Walla  Walla  valley. 

It  is  of  the  utmost  importance  that  Col.  Craig  should  visit  the  Spo- 
k'anes,  and  other  tribes  in  that  region,  in  accordance  with  the  instructions 
I  have  given  him.  I  have  directed  him  to  call  upon  you  for  such  escort 
he  may  require,  and  you  will  furnish  it  on  his  requisition. 

I  have  written  Col.  Craig  about  the  Indian  goods  and  supplies  sent 
to  him. 

Your  proposed  movements  are  approved,  and  I  trust  you  will  be  able 


261 

to  strike  the  enemy  severely,  and  afterwards  get  them  in  on  terms  of  un 
conditional  surrender. 

From  unofficial  information  I  learn  that  a  large  number  of  Yakima 
Indians  have  surrendered  to  Col.  Wright,  including  several  of  their  chiefs. 
Kam-i-akin  still  holds  out, 

I  hope  that  Col.  Wright  will  occupy  the  Walla  Walla  valley  in  the 
course  of  six  or  eight  weeks,  and  thus  relieve  the  volunteers  from  further 
continuance  there. 

Everything  is  quiet  on  the  Sound,  and  the  volunteer  forces,  except 
ing  those  on  the  line  of  the  Snohomish,  are  being  disbanded. 
Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

\&-  Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief, 


4*-.     ',     ,.  i  ^Tri  ni--il.tr    -tl».i-,<-»»     .'  %     4  ,fr     >,4 

[No.  196,] 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  MILL  CREEK,    } 
July  26,  1856.  } 


Gov.  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Com.-in-Chief  W.  T.  Volunteers,  Olympia: 

gIB . 

*  *  *  *  f/'^liV  *  *  * 

****** 

On  the  24th  I  arrived  here  in  the  evening,  and  found  that  Mr. 
Robie  had  just  preceded  me  from  the  Nez  Perces  country  by  about  two- 
hours.  He  brought  me  the  disagreeable  intelligence  that  the  Nez  Perces 
had  shown  a  hostile  disposition :  said  that  they  wished  no  white  man  in 
their  country,  and  moreover,  that  the  treaty  was  broken.  Pearson  told 
him  that  they  were  painting,  beating  their  drums  and  dancing  war  dances 
all  night, 

Pierre  Mortia,  Howlish,  Wampoo  and  several  Nez  Perces   accom 
panied  Mr.  Robie. 

I  had  a  talk  with  these  men,  and  then  sent  Capt.  John  with  a 
sage  to  the  Nez  Perce  chiefs. 


262 

I  told  them  that  I  did  not  come  to  fight  the  Nez  Perces,  but  the  hos 
tile  Indians.  That  I  was  tired  of  persuading  people  to  be  peaceable,  and 
that  if  their  drums  beat  for  war  we  would  parade  for  battle.  That  we 
would  be  friendly  if  they  were  friendly,  and  if  hostile,  we  could  be  hostile 
too.  That  they  had  said  that  they  were  willing  for  Gov.  Stevens  to  send 
men  through  their  country,  and  that  if  he  thought  proper  he  would  do  so, 
I  am  expecting  his  return  every  day. 

Yesterday  I  sent  the  wagon  train  and  pack  animals  to  the  Dalles, 
under  command  of  Capt.  Robie,  accompanied  by  Capt.  Hennes's  company, 
whose  term  is  just  out,  and  Major  Maxon's,  who  have  still  about  18  days 
to  serve,  but  as  they  were  very  anxious  to  go,  I  thought  it  best  to  let 
them  depart. 

I  sent  no  escort  with  them  to  protect  them  on  their  return,  for  I  had 
not  the  men  to  spare.  I  am  now  left  here  with  four  companies,  viz  : 
Goff's,  William's,  Miller's,  and  Powel's,  in  all  about  150  men  and  offi 
cers.  The  8th  September  will  see  the  last  man  of  this  force  disbanded, 
and  there  is  no  probability  of  a  single  man  re-enlisting,  at  least  for  the 
present.  There  are  now,  even,  some  forty  men  in  GofPs  company,  who 
claim  to  receive  their  discharges  at  the  end  of  three  months,  and  should 
this  be  the  case,  their  time  will  be  out  in  a  very  few  days. 

If,  therefore,  you  would  wish  to  keep  up  this  force,  it  would  be  well 
to  set  to  work  recruiting  at  once. 

It  would  be  advisable  to  raise  new  companies  at  once  for  six  months, 
to  have  them  well  armed  and  equipped  with  revolvers,  and  forward  to  the 
scene  of  operations  at  once. 

I  am  now  about  to  construct  block-houses  here  for  the  storing  and 
protection  of  the  quartermaster's  and  commissarie's  stores  here,  and  ex 
pected  by  the  train. 

I  shall  do  every  thing  in  my  power  to  gather  such  Indians  as  are  not 
hostile  into  a  reservation. 

I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,)  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Lt.  Col.  Com'dg.  Expedition  to  Walla  Walla. 


263 

[No.  197.] 

CAMP  MILL  CREEK,  July  26th,  T856. 

Lieut,  Col.   SHAW, 

Commanding  Southern  Battalion  W.  T,  V. : 

DEAR  SIR  : — On  the  22d  June  I  took  up  the  line  of  march  for 
Walla  Walla  valley,  with  my  own  and  Company  K,  numbering  ninety-six 
men,  and  accompanied  by  Capt.  Richard's  company,  (N,)  of  sixty  men, 
in  all  156  men,  under  my  command.  Leaving  Fifteen  Mile  Creek,  we. 
crossed  the  Deschutes  river  and  encamped  on  the  Columbia  where  the 

road  leaves  it. 

****** 

V  *  *  Pursuing  the  usual  route  to  the  Walla  Walla,  on  the 

30th  reached  Butter  creek,  and  struck  camp  with  the  wagons,  ordering 
them  to  remain  there  until  I  returned  from  a  march  which  I  expected  to 
make  against  a  band  of  Indians  which  I  understood  was  encamped  some 
thirty  miles  from  Well  springs  Started  at  dark  with  sixty  men,  and  two 
days'  rations,  and  travelled  all  night,  reaching  Willow  creek  at  sunrise. 
After  taking  some  refreshment,  we  moved  to  the  South  Fork  of  the  same 
creek,  thence  up  it  about  fifteen  miles,  and  stopped  to  rest  ourselves  and 
animals.  At  sundown  we  took  up  our  line  of  march  for  the  Camas  Prai 
rie,  where  our  Indian  guide  thought  we  would  find  the  Indians. 

On  the  2d  July,  moved  on  util  10  o'clock,  P.  M.,  when  we  struck 
Camas  prairie,  but  found  no  Indians,  although  we  saw  immense  trails 
traversing  the  country  in  all  directions. 

Here  we  ate  our  entire  stock  of  provisions,  and  then  started  for  the 
wagon  train,  which  we  reached  on  the  4th,  having  travelled  some  130 

miles  in  112  hours. 

*****  * 

On  the  5th,  an  express  arrived  from  Major  Layton,  (O.  T.  volun 
teers,)  stating  that  he  had  overtaken  a  large  band  of  Indians  on  the  head 
of  John  Day's  river,  which  he  did  not  think  it  prudent  to  attack,  as  they 
so  much  outnumbered  his  command,  and  soliciting  aid  from  me.  I  accor 
dingly  moved  the  train  to  the  springs  on  the  Umatilla  five  miles  above, 
and  spent  the  evening  in  making  arrangements  to  start  to  his  relief  the 
following  day. 

On  the  6th,  left  with  54  of  my  men,  and  14  of  Company  N,  under 
Lieut.  Estes,  leaving  the  train  in  charge  of  Lieut.  Williams,  of  Co.  N. 
Reached  Layton's  encampment  on  the  9th,  about  noon,  but  the  Indians 
had  taken  the  hint  and  left  two  or  three  hours  previous. 

Remained  there  until  the  morning  of  the  llth,  when  the  two  com- 


mands  moved  on  in  pursuit  of  the  Indians,  travelled  up  John  Day's  river 
some  fifteen  miles  to  Red  Bluffs  and  camped,  sending  a  scout  ahead  at 
night  to  a  camp  where  our  guides  thought  there  might  be  some  Indians. 

The  12th,  the  scout  having  returned,  stating  there  were  no  Indians 
encamped  there,  we  took  up  the  line  of  march  on  the  left  hand  trail — the 
trails  dividing  here — and  traveled  about  ten.  miles,  when  Lieut.  Hunter, 
who  had  had  charge  of  the  advance  guard,  came  in  sight  of  several  Indi 
ans  on  horseback,  whom  he  pursued  at  full  speed,  causing  them  to  aban 
don  one  horse,  which  he  captured.  We  then  struck  camp  on  a  small 
creek,  in  what  is  probably  Eureka  valley. 

13th — I  was  compelled  to  remain  in  camp  on  account  of  having  been 
taken  violently  ill  on  the  day  before,  but  being  unwilling  for  the  Indians 
to  escape,  I  sent  Lieut.  Hunter  with  twenty-eight  men,  accompanied  by 
Major  Layton  and  forty-five  men,  to  pursue  and  stop  them  if  possible, 
keeping  the  residue  of  my  command  with  myself. 

On  the  14th,  I  remained  in  camp,  quite  sick.  On  the  15th,  started 
on  the  trail,  following  Lieut.  Hunter.  The  16th — Continued  up  John 
Day's  river  on  the  trail — traveled  till  midnight,  and  camped  on  the  sum 
mit  of  the  Blue  Mountains. 

ltth — Started  early,  and  on  descending  the  mountain,  struck  the 
head  of  Burnt  river,  where  we  found  Lieut.  Hunter,  and  Layton's  com 
mand,  from  the  first  of  whom  I  gathered  the  following  particulars  of  a 
battle  which  they  had  had  with  the  Indians  at  that  place  : 

Major  Layton  and  Lieut.  Hunter  had  arrived  there  on  the  15th,  and 
had  struck  camp,  when  three  men  proposed  going  on  to  an  adjacent  bluff, 
and  taking  a  view  of  the  surrounding  country.  The  Lieutenant  told  them 
they  had  better  not  go,  as  there  was  danger  of  Indians  ;  they  however 
started,  but  had  not  reached  the  top  of  the  bluff,  when  they  were  fired 
upon  by  some  Indians,  who  were  in  ambush  near  the  summit,  and  two  of 
them  killed — Mr.  Daniel  Smith,  private  of  Co.  K,  and  John  Estes,  2d 
Lieut,  of  Co.  N,  the  third,  Mr.  Richards,  of  Co.  K,  made  his  almost  mi 
raculous  escape  through  their  fire,  having  his  gun  set  off  by  a  bullet,  from 
an  Indian's  gun.  The  firing  being  heard  from  camp,  some  eight  or  ten 
men  started  to  their  relief,  meeting  Richards  a  short  distance  from  camp. 
The  Indians  immediately  made  their  appearance  all  over  the  hill,  where 
upon  Lt.  Hunter  took  ten  men  and  charged  them  off  the  hill,  recovering 
the  bodies  of  the  murdered  men.  Night  now  came  on,  and  the  Indians 
kept  the  camp  surrounded,  to  prevent  an  express  from  being  sent  out. 

Next  morning  the  Indians  were  still  on  three  sides  of  the  camp,  and 
orders  were  given  for  opportunities  to  shoot  from  camp.  Major  Layton 
placed  some  nwn  at  the  mouth  of  a  canyon  to  prevent  the  Indians  from 


265 

corning  oat  and  firing  into  camp.  Lieut.-  Hunter  placed  some  men  at  a 
point  near  the  mouth  of  a  canyon  to  prevent  the  Indians  from  coming  out, 
when,  by  some  means,  some  Indians  came  .by  or  through  the  canyon,  and 
creeping  up  within  a  short  distance  of  the  above-mentioned  point,  shot 
one  of  my  men  (James  Cherry)  in  the  leg;  after  which,  Lieut:  Hunter 
charged  the  Indians,  which  resulted  in  pouting  them  from  their  positions, 
killing  three  Indians,  and  wounding  one,  and  also,  killing  one  horse.  The 
firing  continued  until  3  o'clock,  when  the  balance  of  Major  Layton's  com 
mand  came  up  and  were  surrounded  by  the  Indians,  when  Lt.  Hunter, 
with  seven  men,  charged  through  and. met  them,  when  they  all  came  into 
camp. 

After  the  arrival  of  reinforcements,  a  brisk  fire  was  kept  up  until 
about  6  o'clock,  which  resulted  in  the  killing  of  four  more  Indians. 

,  The  next  morning  there  were  ajew  Indians  to  be  seen  on.  the  bluff, 
but  no  shots  fired.  About  8  otelock,  the  hill  was  triumphantly  ascended, 
and  our  flag  planted  on  the  highest  pinnacle,  while  the  last  Indian  was 
seen  making  good  his  retreat -to  the  mountains. 

On  the  18th,  the  whole  command  left  the  battle  ground,  and  march 
ing  down  the  valley  of  Burnt  river,  on  the.  19th,  struck  the  emigrant 
road  at  the  river  crossing,  forty  miles  below  the  battle  ground.  From 

this  point   we  marched  by  the  usual  trail  to  the  Umatilla,  and  thence 

• 

to  head  quarters,  which  we  reached  on  the  25th. 

(Signed,)  F.  M.  P.  GOFF, 

Capt.  Com'g.  Column  en  route  for  Head  Quarters,  W.  T.  V. 


,[No.  198.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 
Olympia,  Aug.  2d,  1856.  } 

Lieut.  Col.  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Commanding  Expedition  to  Walla  Walla  : 

SIR  : — In  general  orders  of  this  date,  thanks  are  returned  to  yourself, 
the  officers  and  men  of  your  command  for  their  intrepid  conduct  at  the 
battle  of  Grande  Ronde  and  Burnt  rivers. 
34 


266 

I  shall  issue  my  proclamation  calling  out  two  companies,  consisting 
each  of  one  Captain,  three  Lieutenants,  four  Sergeants,  four  Corporals 
and  one  hundred  privates  ;  one  to  be  raised  on  the  Sound  and  the  other 
on  the  Columbia  river. 

But*  it  is  possible  that  all  difficulties  may  be  brought  to  a  close  by 
prompt  and  decisive  measures  of  pacification.  It  is  well  to  attempt  it, 
seeing  that  by  the  vigorous  blows  of  our  troops,  the  Indians  must  know 
that  the  whites  will  prevail  in  the  contest. 

I  have  therefore  determined  to  go  in  person  to  the  Walla  Walla,  to 
meet  in  a  general  council  all  the  tribes  still  peaceful,  the  N ez  Perces  and 
Spokanes,  and  all  other  tribes  who  are  disposed  to  change  their  condition 
from  hostility  to  friendship. 

As  regards  the  hostiles,  the  only  terms  are  unconditional  submission, 
and  the  rendition  to  punishment  of  instigators  to  war,  and  of  murderers. 

On  the  receipt  of  this  communication  you  will  immediately  send  ex 
presses  to  all  the  tribes,  calling  upon  them  to  meet  at  a  general  council 
to  be  held  at  your  camp  in  Walla  Walla  on  the  25th  of  the  present 
month. 

Send  expresses  to  the  hostiles,  but  stating  if  they  come  in,  it  will  be 
the  terms  of  absolute  submission. 

It  will  be  easy,  if  we  succeed  in  this  general  pacification,  to  disband 
the  troops  which  may  be  raised  under  my  proclamation.  If  we  do  not 
succeed,  the  troops  will  be  in  the  field  to  occupy  the  Walla  Walla  and 
maintain  American  ascendency  in  the  interior. 

I  shall  be  at  the  Dalles  Thursday,  August  14th.  I  have  asked  Col. 
Wright  to  accompany  me  to  Walla  Walla,  and  have  urged  him  to  send 
forward  to  that  point  three  companies  of  regulars  including  all  his  mounted 
men. 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
ISAAC  I.  STEYENS, 
Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief, 


[No.  199.} 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  MILL  CREEK,  ) 
August  1st,  1856.          ) 

Lieut.  Col.  WM.  CRAIG,. 

Lapwai,  Nez  Perce  Country : 
SIR  : — Your  letter  of  28th  and  29th  July  was  received  as  well  as 


267 

translations  of  the  speeches  made  by  the  Nez  Perce  chiefs  in  council. 
These  I  have  sent  to  the  Governor,  tho'  I  would  not  be  surprised  if  he 
would  come  up  here  on  receiving  the  news  of  the  hostile  attitude  taken  by 
the  Nez  Perces  before. 

We  killed  about  forty  of  the  enemy  at  the  Grande  Ronde,  and  among 
them  four  or  five  squaws,  who  were  mistaken  by  the  boys  for  bucks,  in 
the  dust  and  smoke.  Whenever  they  were  recognised  as  squaws  they 
were  suffered  to  escape.  I  understand  that  the  enemy  report  that  we 
killed  more  squaws  and  children  than  men.  This  was  not  so,  to  my  own 
knowledge. 

I  sent  by  Co.pt.  John,  "a  talk"  for  Lawyer  and  the  head  chiefs  of  the 
Nez  Perces,  and  also  a  message  for  the  hostile  tribes,  the  €ayuses,  Walla 
Wallas  and  Utillas.  This  message  I  wish  translated  to  them.  Now  with 
regard  to  the  hostiles,  I  distinctly  say  this — 

From  two  squaws  captured  in  the  battle,  I  understood  that  there 
were  many  in  the  battle  who  did  not  wish  to  fight,  but  were  overruled  by 
the  hostile  portion. 

Now  let  all  these  people  come  in  if  they  do  not  wish  to  fight  and 
they  will  be  kindly  treated.  Those  who  have  been  hostile  will  receive  a 
fair  trial — if  found  innocent  they  will  be  discharged  and  treated  as  friends; 
if  found  guilty  they  will  be  disposed  of  as  the  Governor  shall  direct. 

Let  some  chief,  or  two  chiefs,  come  to  me  with  some  of  the  Nez.  Per 
ces,  and  whether  hostile  or  not  they  shall  be  safe,  and  if  we  are  unable  to 
agree  on  terms  they  shall  return  safe  as  they  came. 

The  two  best  men  to  send  to  the  hostile  camp  would  be  Stickas  and 
Les-hall,  alias  Tow-watty's  son,  as  these  stand  well  with  both  parties. — 
Let  Stickas  and  Tow-watty's  son  say  to  those  who  may  \vish  to  come  in, 
that  inasmuch  as  they  may  be  threatened  by  the  hostiles  that  I  will  have 
a  force  here  to  protect  them  against  the  hostiles,  and  will  do  it. 

Stickas  can  say  to  Wi-nan-pish-noot  that  he  had  better  be  one  of 
those  who  come  in,  as  I  think  he  is  disposed  to  peace. 

If  they  come,  let  them  come  quickly.  If  I  have  to  hunt  them  up,  I 
will  know  that  they  are  bad  people  and  will  wipe  them  out. 

If  they  propose  peace,  we  will  have  a  cessation  of  arms — have  a 
council,  and  .will  send  for  the  Governor  to  be  present. 

If  anything  important  should  happen,  send  me  word  by  Capt.  John, 
immediately.    You  had  better  send  me  an  express  in  a  few  days  anwhow. 
I  shall  always  be  glad  to  hear  from  you. 
Yery  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,)  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Lieut.  Col.  Com'g.  Expedition  to  Walla  Walla. 


268 

[  No.  200.  ] 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  MILL  CREEK,  ) 
*  August  1st,  1856.          j 

Letter,  addressed  to  Lawyer, 

or  the  Head  Chiefs  of  the  Ncz  Perce  Nation  : 

MY  FRIENDS  : — I  received  your  letters  by  the  hand  of  Capt.  John 
and  two  other  head-men.  The  letters,  I  have  forwarded  to  Governor  Ste 
vens  according  to  your  wish.  You  send  me  your  hearts  and  they  are 
right.  You  speak  like  men,  not  like  boys.  I  now  know  your  hearts  are 
right.  I  now  send  you  my  heart.  I  did  not  come  here  to  take  my  gun 
to  fight  our  friends,  the  Nez  Perce  people.  I  will  take  my  gun  to  fight 
any  other  people  that  are  mad  with  .the  Nez  Perces  for  what  they  have 
done  for  the  Americans. 

You  may  rest  assured  that  our  hearts  are  all  right,  as  yours  are 
right.  I  will  not  be  the  first  to  do  wrong. 

I  was  sent  here  by  Gov.  Stevens  to  speak  good  to  the  good  people 
and  to  fight  the  bad.  I  did  not  come  to  speak  to  men.  whose  hands  are 
bloody  with  our  friends'  blood. 

I  wish  you  to  deliver  the  following  message  to  the  Cayuse  and  Wal 
la  Wallas,  and  Utillas : 

All  the  good  people  can  now  come  in  to  this  post  and  they  will  have 
protection.  Those  that  wish  to  continue  in  war  can  do  so.  If,,  however, 
they  are  all  tired  of  war  and  wish  to  come  in,  they  can  do  so.  All  those 
who  have  been  engaged  in  battle  with  the  Americans  will  receive  a  fair 
trial,  and  if  found  innocent,  they  will  be  treated  as  friends  ;  if  guilty,  the 
Governor  will  say  what  the  punishment  will  be.  If  they  should  want  to 
come  in,  they  can  send  in  one  chief  first,  along  with  some  of  the  Nez 
Perce  people.  They  will  be  permitted  to  come  and  go  whether  hostile  or 
not,  so  that  they  wish  to  speak  with  me. 
Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Lt.  Col,  Com'g/Expedition  to  Walla  Walla, 


[No.  201.] 

HEAD  (j 

August  14th,  1856 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  FORT  MASON,  ) 


'Gov.  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

SIR  : — The  expressman  A.  Mclntosh  has  just  arrived  with  your  con> 


269 

rnuuication.     Your  instructions  relative  to  sending  expresses  to  the  dif 
ferent  Indian  tribes  shall  be  attended  to  immediately. 

I  shall  make  all  the  necessary  preparations  for  a  council. 

I  suppose  that  this  will  meet  you  at  the  Dalles,  and  therefore  I  shall 
soon  see  you  and  be  able  to  confer  more  fully. 

I  am  in  possession  of  a  note  from  a  Mr.  Ruble,  which  informs  me 
that  there  is  a  body  of  immigrants  coming  to  the  Territory,  and  I  am 
about  making  up  a  party  to  go  and  meet  them.  I  must  wait  till  I  can 
get  provisions  here,  and  have  sent  to  Mr.  Robie  to  send  them  immediate 
ly.  Push  them  forward  as  soon  as  possible. 

Everything  is  quiet  here.    ,  No  Indians  to  be  seen. 

I  think  that  your  place  of  a  grand  council  is  a  splendid  one,  and  it 
will  no  doubt  be  well  attended. 

Very  respectfully,  &c., 
(Signed,)     ,  ,  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Lt.  Col.,  Com'g.  Expedition  to  Walla  Walla. 


[No.  202.] 

HEAD  (J 

August  14th,  1856 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  FORT  MASON,  ) 


Lieut.  Col.  WM.  CRAIG, 

Lapwai,  Nez  Perce  Nation  : 

SIR  : — I  received  your  express  by  Joe  and  Richard,  and  as  I  was 
daily  in  expectation  of  receiving  an  express  from  the  Governor,  have  de 
tained  them  up  to  the  present  time. 

The  express  was  delayed  by  an  accident  and  only  arrived  this  morn 
ing. 

I  received  a  letter  from  the  Governor  announcing  that  he  was  on  his 
way  to  the  Dalles,  where  he  expected  to  be  to-day,  and  would  come  up  to 
this  place  in  order  to  hold  a  council  with  the  friendly  Indians. 

He  directs  me  to  send  expresses  to  all  the  friendly  tribes,  including 
the  Spokanes,  Nez  Perces,  Palouses,  friendly  Cayuses  and  Walla  Wallas, 
to  meet  him  in  council  on  the  25th  of  this  month,  in  order  to  have  a  grand 
talk  with  them.  He  also  sends  messages  to  those  who  have  been  hereto 
fore  hostile,  which  is,  that  they  too,  can  come  to  the  council.  If  a  treaty 


270 

is  made  with  them,  it  must  be  on  terms  of  unconditional  surrender  to  the 
mercy  of  the  government. 

The  Governor  has  invited  Col.  Wright  to  accompany  him  to  the 
council,  and  it  may  be  possible  that  he  will  come  with  a  body  of  regular 
troops. 

You  will  therefore  send  runners  to  the  different  tribes,  informing 
them  of  the  appointment  of  the  council  and  inviting  them  to  attend  at  the 
time  appointed. 

The  Governor  says  nothing  to  me  about  your  coming,  but  I  should 
think  it  necessary  for  you  to  do  so,  as  your  services  would  be  indispensa 
ble  as  interpreter. 

The  Governor  has  called  by  proclamation  for  200  more  volunteers, 
to  fill  the  place  of  those  whose  term  is  expiring,  and  he  is  determined  to 
keep  a  force  in  the  valley  sufficient  to  control  the  interior  in  case  peace  is 
not  made. 

We  have  information  here  by  private  letters  that  there  is  a  body  of 
emigrants  on  the  road  to  Oregon,  and  I  am  requested  by  some  persons 
who  have  relations  among  them,  to  do  everything  in  my  power  to  see  them 
through  safe. 

Now,  if  possible,  I  would  be  glad  if  you  could  send  some  Nez  Perces 
to  meet  them  and  return,  so  that  I  could  meet  them  in  time  to  protect 
them  through  the  hostile  country.  It  would  be  well  for  you  to  write  to 
them  and  advise  them  to  stop  at  the  Salmon  river  settlement  until  I  can 
receive  an  express  through. 

Respectfully, 

B.  F.  SHAW, 
Lt.  Col,  Com'g.  Expedition  to  Walla  Walla. 


[No.  203.] 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  MILL  CREEK,  ) 

>•      I" 


To  the  Chiefs  and  Head  Men.  of  the  Nez  Perce,  Spokane,  and  other  friendly 
Tribes  : 

The  Governor  directs  me  to  say  to  you,  that  he  will  be  here,  .at  my 
,  on  the  25th  of  this  mouth,  and  invites  you  to  meet  him  in  council 


271 

on  that  day.     He  is  very  anxious  to  see  his  old  friends  and  talk  to  them 
about  their  future  welfare.     He  wants  to  see  all  the  chiefs  of  all  the  tribes. 

He  has  invited  Col.  Wright,  a  soldier  chief,  to  come  with  him.  The 
message  which  I  have  already  sent  to  the  hostiles  by  Stickas,  is  the  same 
as  the  Governor  sends. 

The  Governor  wishes  to  renew  his  friendship  witfr  the  Nez  Perces 
and  Spokanes  and  other  friends,  and  says  that  he  will  continue  to  war 
with  those  who  are  at  war,  until  they  surrender  unconditionally  to  the 
Government. 

If  any  of  the  hostiles  come,  let  them  come  without  guns. 

The  best  thing  therefore  they  can  do  is  to  send  some  chiefs  into  the 
council  to  see  the  Governor  and  talk  with  him.  They  shall  not  be  hurt 
while  in  my  camp,  or  in  coming  to  it  or  going  from  it,  as  this  is  a  council 
called  to  talk  in  friendship  ;  therefore,  it  shall  be  peace  while  that  eouncil 
exists. 

I  do  not  know  what  the  Governor  will  say,  and  therefore  I  say,,  come 
and  hear  for  yourselves. 

(Signed,)  B.  F.  SHAW.    / 


[No.  204.] 

HEAD  < 

Walla  Walla  Valley,  August  23d,  1856. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  W.  T.  VOLUNTEERS,  FORT  MASOX,  ) 


Lieut.  Col.  WM.  CRAIG, 

Sub.  Indian  Agent,  Lapwai,  Nez  Perce  Country  : 

SIR  : — I  reached  Col.  Shaw's  camp  about  3  p.  M.  to-day  and  found 
letters  from  you  to  Col.  Shaw,  and  your  messenger,  Joe. 

Joe  returns  to-night  and  will  reach  you  to-morrow. 

I  do  not  anticipate  that  it  will  be  practicable  to  get  the  Indians 
here,  even  as  early  as  the  27th,  the  day  you  mention.  It  is  desirable  to 
get  a  good  representation  here  of  the  friendly  tribes,  and  all  the  hostiles, 
provided  the  latter  will  come  in  on  the  terms  of  unconditional  submission 
to  the  justice  and  mercy  of  the  Government.  If  the  Palouses,  Yakimas 
and  Cayuses,  with  their  chiefs,  shall  present  themselves  at  the  council 
ground,  they  will  be  treated  well,  and  the  course  which  the  Government 


272 

will  pursue  on  their  delivering  themselves  up,  will  then  be  made  known  to 
them, 

You  may  find  it  necessary  to  express  again  to  the  several  tribes,  and 
I  will  advise  it.  Let  us  do  the  whole  business  thoroughly  and  see  if  an 
arrangement  cannot  be  made  which  will  end  the  war.' 

I  shall  expect  to  see  Dr.  Lansdale  here  with  you,  for  I  cannot  doubt 
that  he  will  come  through  safe. 

At  this  very  moment  I  hear  the  word  "here  is  'Capt.  John/''  and  I 
will  wait  till  I  learn  what  news  he  brings. 

Capt.  John  brings  a  letter  from  you  to  Col.  Shaw,  referring  the  latter 
to  Capt.  John  for  news  as  to  the  hostiles. 

Capt.  John  states,  the  Spokanes  will  not  probably  come,  that  most 
of  the  Nez  Perces  will  be  here,  but  without  their  women.  That  the  prom 
inent  chiefs  of  the  Cayuses  desire  to  come  in,  but  Wild-Cat  and  several 
other  young  fellows  are  for  war.  That  Kamiakin  will  come  in  if  desired 
to  do  so  by  Looking  Glass. 

K  this  be  correct,  it  will  be  necessary  for  you  to  express  to  the  Spo 
kanes  again  and  to  send  my  word  to  them,  asking  them  to  come  to  the  council. 

The  presence  of  Kamiakin,  his  chiefs  and  people  is  desired,  provided 
they  will  attend  the  council  on  terms  of  unconditional  submission  to  the 
justice  and  mercy  of  the  Government. 

Send  also  to  the  Cceur  d'  Alenes,  asking  the  attendance  of  their 
chiefs,  and  inviting  Father  Raville'  to  come  with  them. 

You  are  expected  as  a  matter  of  course  to  attend  the  council  with 
the  Nez  Perces,  and  it  is  suggested,  that  if  practicable,  you  make  your 
arrangements  on  the  conclusion  of  the  council,  to  go  below — execute  your 
official  bond,  and  get  funds  and  supplies  for  your  agency  during  the  fall. 

Truly  yours, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Snp't. 


[No.  205.] 

HEAD  QT 

August  23d,  1856 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  FORT  MASON,  ) 


Lieut.  Col.  WM.  CRAIG, 

Special  Indian  Agent,  Lapwai,  Nez  Perce  Nation  : 
SIR  : — The  Governor  arrived  here  this  evening  with  a  small   pack 
train  of  Indian  goods.     The  main  pack  train  is  en  route  to  this  place. 


273 

Your  messenger,  Capt.  John,  arrived  here  this  evening  also,  and  we 
gathered  the  following  information  from  him  :  that  the  Cayuses  are  divi 
ded,  eight  chiefs  for  peace  and  five  for  war  ;  that  the  peace  party  had 
started  to  come  in,  but  that  the  hostiles  had  cut  the  packs  from  their  hor 
ses,  but  that  they  were  going  to  start  again,  and  that  if  the  hostiles  inter 
rupted  them,  intended  to  fight  among  themselves.  He  also  informs  me 
that  Kamiakin  had  sent  word  to  Looking  Glass  that  he  would  do  what 
ever  Looking  Glass  advised  him  to  do. 

We  have  invited  none  of  the  hostiles  to  come  in,  but  if  they  do  come, 
they  shall  be  well  treated  and  suffered  to  come  and  go -with  impunity. 

As  Kamiakin  has  made  Looking  Glass  his  counsel  he  can  advise  him 
accordingly.     It  is  unnecessary  to  add  more,  as  the  Governor  has  written 
you  in  full  on  this  subject. 
\  Respectfully, 

(Signed,)  B.  F.  SHAW, 

Lt.  Col.,  Com'g.  Expedition  to  Walla  Walla. 


[No.  206.] 

EXECUTIVE  ( 

Olympia,  Oct.  19th,  1855. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 


CHARLES  EATOX,  ESQ., 

SIR  : — You  are  hereby  authorized  and  requested,  as  soon  as  possible, 
to  form  a  company  of  rangers,  to  eonsist  of  one  Captain,  one  1st  and  two 
2d  Lieutenants,  four  Sergeants,  four  Corporals,  and  thirty  privates.  In 
case  you  deem  it  necessary,  you  are  authorized  to  increase  your  command 
io  forty  privates. 

It  will  be  the  duty  of  such  company  to  range  along  the  base  of  the 
Cascade  mountains  on  the  western  side,  to  keep  a  sharp  look  out  upon  the 
various  trails,  and  intercept  any  communication  that  my  be  carried  on  be 
tween  the  Indians  on  the  east  and  those  on  the  west  side  of  the  mountains. 
Should  you  assent  to  the  above,  as  soon  as  your  company  is  organ 
ized  you  will  report  for  duty,  when  further  instructions  will  be  given. 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 

C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Gov.  Washington  Territory. 
35 


274 

[No.  207.] 

EXECUTIVE  Of 

Olympia,  Oct.  20th,  1855. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,   ) 


Capt.  GILMORE  HAYS, 

Commanding  Puget  Sound  Mounted  Volunteers : 
SIR — Your  company  having  been  organized,  you  will  proceed  at  the 
earliest  moment  to  Fort  Steilacoom  and  report  to  the  commanding  officer 
your  readiness  to  unite  with  the  regular  troops  from  that  post,  and  to  co 
operate  with  them  hi  the  operations  against  the  Yakima  tribe  of  Indians. 

I  am,  sir, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

C.  H.  MASON, 
Acting  Gov.  Washington  Territory. 


[No.  208,] 

EXECUTIVE  0 

OLYMPIA,  Oct.  23d,  1855. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  > 


Capt.  C.  EATON, 

Commanding  Mounted  Rangers  : 

SIR  : — In  my  letter  of  appointment  to  you  of  the  19th  of  October,  I 
stated  that  further  instructions  would  be  given  when  you  reported  your 
organization  complete  and  your  company  ready  for  duty. 

In  the  fulfilment  of  the  duty  assigned  you,  I  rely  upon  your  discre 
tion,  and  will  only  give  general  instructions,  looking  to  the  details  to  be 
suggested  by  yourself. 

.  1st.  Yon  will  divide  your  command  into<  three  or  more  parties  or 
squads,  placing  a  judicious  officer  in  charge  of  each,  and  having  a  clear 
understanding  as  to  your  rendezvous  and  movements ;  or,  should  you  think 
it  better  for  the  public  service,  you  will  scour  the  country  with  your  whole 
command. 

These  parties  will  scout  the  whole  country  between  the  Snoqualmie 
pass  and  the  southern  pass  of  the  Cascades  south  of  Mt.  Rainier  or  Lewis 
river  pass,  looking  into  each  of  these  passes  and  intercepting  any  Indians 


275 

that  may  be  found  traveling  the  mountains  from  the  seat  of  war,  and  also 
all  who  may  be  found  communicating  from  the  tribes  inhabiting  the  coun 
try  west  of  the  mountains. 

You  will  endeavor  to  preserve  quiet  amongst  the  tribes  living  to  the 
west  of  the  mountains,  and  do  not  permit  your  command  to  commit  any 
act  which  will  have  a  tendency  to  cause  tribes  who  may  now  be  friendly, 
to  become  hostile. 

You  will  despatch  expresses  to  this  office  as  frequently  as  possible, 
informing  me  of  everything  you  may  deem  of  importance  and  communicate 
the  orders  you  have  given  to  your  squads,  and  in  a  word,  keep  this  office 
fully  informed  of  your  movements  and  of  what  disposition  you  find  the  In 
dians,  &c. 

You  will  keep  an  account  of  all  supplies  of  forage  and  provisions  you 
may  take  or  receive  from  any  source. 

Should  you  meet  any  unusual  or  suspicious  assemblage  of  Indians, 
you  will  disarm  them,  and  should  they  resist,  disperse  them,  and  put  any 
who  resist  or  use  violence  to  death,  or  send  them  to  Fort  Steilacoom  in 
irons,  or  bound  as  you  may  deem  best. 

Any  Yakima  Indians  or  other  savage  of  the  tribes  now  at  war  whom 
you  may  discover  west  of  the  Cascades,  acting  as  an  emissary  to  incite 
the  tribes  now  at  peace  to  join  the  war  party,  you  will  hang. 

You  will  endeavor  to  persuade  all  the  Indians  you  find  near  the 
western  base  of  the  Cascades  to  remove  west  toward  the  Sound,  that  they 
may  be  farther  removed  from  the  dangerous  neighborhood  of  the  hostile 
tribes.  You  will  thus  be  enabled  to  discriminate  between  those  who  are 
friendly  and  those  who  are  not.  Those  who  remove  will  thereby  show 
that  they  have  no  communication  with  the  Yakimas,  and  those  who  do 
not  are  to  be  watched  and  punished  if  detected  in  any  understanding  with 
the  enemy,  informing  them  of  the  choice  they  have  and  the  danger  they 
are  in  of  being  treated  as  enemies  should  they  remain  so  near  the  seat  of 
war. 

All  arms  and  ammunition  you  may  take  from  the  savages  you  will 
send  to  Olympia,  to  this  office. 

You  will  furnish  each  of  the  officers  commanding  detached   squads 
with  instructions  based  upon  these  orders  and  upon  your  reports  to  this  of 
fice,  or  in  my  absence,  to  the  Adjutant  General  at  Olympia. 
I  am,  sir,  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

C.  H.  MASON, 
Acting  Gov.  Washington  Territory. 


276 

[No.  209.] 

S^RILACOOM,  Oct.  30th,  1855. 

JAMES  TILTON,  ESQ., 

Adjutant  General  Washington  Territory  : 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  report  for  service  against  the  Indians, 
one  company  of  volunteers,  raised  in  this  county,  numbering  40  all  told. 
Notwithstanding  this  company  has  been  raised  according  to  the  proclama 
tion,  still  we  hope  that  our  services  may  be  accepted,  and  that  we  may  be 
placed  on  the  same  footing  with  the  rest  of  the  volunteers.  I  herewith 
transmit  a  list  of  the  officers  elected. 

W.  H.  WALLACE, 

Captain. 


[No.  210.] 

PRAIRIE,  Nov.  3d,  1855. 


Hon.  C.  II.  MASON, 

Acting  Gov.  Washington  Territory  : 

SIR  :  —  At  about  9  o'clock  this  morning,  one  hundred  men,  fifty  regu 
lars  under  Lieut.  Slaughter,  and  fifty  of  the  Puget  Sound  volunteers,  en 
gaged  from  one  hundred  to  two  hundred  Indians  on  the  White  river.  The 
Indians  fought  rather  bravely  in  the  early  part  of  the  engagement,  but 
were  deterred  after  an  hour's  fight,  by  the  deadly  fire  poured  into  their 
ranks  by  rifle  and  musketry.  We  estimate  their  loss  at  thirty  men.  Our 
loss  was  one  man  killed  and  one  wounded  slightly.  Lieut.  Slaughter  de 
serves  credit  for  his  deliberation  and  his  remarkable  efficiency  during  the 
fight,  as  also  my  1st  and  2d  Lieutenants,  Hurd  and  Martin.  The  volun 
teers  under  my  command  acted  nobly.  There  was  not  one  who  did  not 
perform  his  whole  duty. 

GILMORE  HAYS, 

Capt.  Puget  Sound  Volunteers. 


277 

[Xt>.  211.] 

EXE< 

November  9th,  1855. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  ) 


Capt.  G.  HAYS, 

Com'g.  Company  B,  W.  T.  Volunteers  : 

SIR  : — Your  report  of  the  very  creditable  affair  of  White  river,  gave 
profound  satisfaction  to  myself  and  all  the  relations,  friends  and  acquain 
tances  of  your  company,  in  Olympia  and  its  vicinity. 

It  only  fulfilled  my  expectations  of  the  efficiency  of  your  command, 
based  upon  what  I  observe,  in  their  prompt  response  to  the  call  for  volun 
teers,  and  the  known  character  of  many  of  them. 

Their  gallant  conduct  in  action,  and  patient  endurance  of  all  the  pri 
vations  of  a  campaign,  it  will  be  my  agreeable  duty  to  make  known  to  the 
inhabitants  of  a  Territory  of  which  they  are  the  flower. 

I  shall  take  especial  pleasure  in  giving  publicity  to  the  names  of  any 
of  your  command,;-who  may  have  been  so  fortunate  as  to  distinguish  them 
selves  in  a  conflict,  where  according  to  Capt.  Maloney's  report  it  is  impos 
sible  to  say  "who  were  gallant  where  all  were  gallant." 

Yours,  respectfully, 

C.  H.  MASON, 
Acting  Gov.  Washington  Territory. 


[No.  212.] 

OFFICE 

OLYMPIA,  Nov.  9th,  1855. 


OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V., ) 


Capt.  EATON, 

Com'g.  Company  Mounted  Rangers  : 

SIR  :— You  are  hereby  instructed  to  report  to  Capt.  M.  Maloney  for 
orders. 

You  will  co-operate  with  the  command  of  Capt.  Maloney  with  your 
whole  force,  until  further  orders  from  either  Capt.  Maloney  or  this  office. 

Respectfully, 

J.  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V. 
By  order  of  the  Acting  Governor. 


2*78 

i     • '  _ 

[No.  213.] 

OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V., ) 
OLYMPIA,  Nov.  9th,  1855.          j 

Capt.  W.  H.  WALLACE, 

Com'g.  Company  D,  W.  T.  Volunteers : 

SIR  : — You  will  report  for  orders  to  Capt.  M.  Malonej  and  „  co-ope 
rate  with  him  in  the  campaign. 

Capt.  Maloney  has  been  informed  of  the  intention  of  this  office  to 
strengthen  his  command  to  the  utmost  that  it  is  possible. 

Please  report  your  movements  before  reporting  to  Capt.  Maloney, 
and  also  the  effective  force  of  your  command,  the  number  of  horses,  char 
acter  of  arms,  &c. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Very  respectfully,  &c., 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V. 
By  order  of  the  Acting  Governor. 


[No.  214.] 

CAMP  MONTGOMERY,  Nov.  llth,  1855. 

Hon.  C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor  Washington  Territory : 

SIR  :— On  the  4th  inst.,  one  hundred  and  twenty-five  men — fifty  reg 
ulars,  fifty  Puget  Sound  Mounted  volunteers,  and  twenty-five  Wallace's 
company,  marched  against  the  Indians  on  Green  river.  In  descending 
the  Green  river  hill,  one  of  their  seniinels  shot  one  of  the  guides,  Mr. 
Burge,  wounding  him  slightly.  We  could  see  them  in  the  river  bottom. 
We  pursued  and  coming  up  with  their  rear,  they  fired  into  our  ranks  and 
we  into  theirs.  We  continued  our  pursuit  on  the  run,  charging  them 
wherever  found  in  the  bush  until  dark.  We  then  laid  down  on  our  arms 
in  mud  and  rain  until  morning.  In  the  after  part  of  the  night  our  senti 
nels  could  see  them  moving.  When  day-light  came,  we  found  a  part  of 
their  force  ambuscaded  in  the  drift  wood  and  brush,  prepared  to  fire  and 
run.  I  ordered  Lieut.  Hurd  to  charge  them  on  the  left  over  a  deep 


279 

slough,  the  river  on  the  right  being  too  deep,  but  afterwards  countermand 
ed  the  order,  knowing  full  well  that  in  the  charge  we  would  loose  more 
men  than  the  enemy.  They  were  prepared  to  fire  and  run.  We  returned 
to  camp.  On  the  next  day  we  routed  a  party  on  the  Upper  Puyallup. 
We  approached  them  by  two  routes.  The  volunteers  under  my  command 
by  one,  and  Lieut.  Slaughter,  U.  S.  A.,  with  fifty  regulars  and  10  of 
Wallace's  company  by  the  other.  The  enemy  were  gone  however  except 
some  few  of  their  number  who  ambushed  Lieut.  Slaughter's  party,  killing 
one  and  wounding  four  others,  all  of  whom  I  think  will  recover.  No 
blame  can  attach  to  Lieut.  Slaughter. 

Yesy  respectfully, 

G.  HAYS, 
Capt.  P.  S.  M.  Volunteers,  W.  T. 


[  No.  215.  J 

CAMP  MORRISON,  Dec.  10th,  1855, 


Adj't  General  JAMES 

Washington.  Territory  Yolunteers,  OJympia  : 

SIR  :  —  In  compliance  with  orders  of  Nov.  2d,  1855,1  have  the  hon 
or  to  report  the  arrival  of  Lieut.  Slaughter's  command  and  tram  on  the 
1st  Dec.  at  my  camp. 

Lieut,  Slaughter,  after  resting  his  men  for  two  days,  started  with  60 
of  his  men  and  5  of  my  men,  with  two  day's  provisions,  for  White  river,  to 
communicate  with  Capt.  Hewitt's  command,  telling  me  at  the  same  time 
that  he  would  be  back  in  four  days.  It  is  now  8  days  since  he  left  this 
camp,  and  as  I  have  not  heard  from  him  to  this  date,  I  consider  it  my  duty 
to  inform  you  of  this,  so  in  case  that  the  Lieutenant  should  have  met  with 
difficulties,  Government  should  be  prepared  for  it. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Yery  respectfully,  &c., 

R.  S.  MORE, 
1st  Lt.,  Coin'g.  Company  D,  1st  Reg't.  W.  T.  Y. 


280 

[No.  21  Qf] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,  ) 
Olympia,  Feb.  2d,  1856.          ) 

Capt.  C.  W.  SWINDALL, 

SIR  : — The  services  of  the  company  recently  organized  at  Skookum 
Bay  are  accepted,  on  the  condition  that  their  term  of  service  is  for  six 
months,  and  that  they  are  subject  to  the  disposal  of  the  Executive  as  to 

their  field  of  duty. 

*  *  ****** 

*  *  *  *         You  will,  in  case  of  an  attack,  maintain 

your  position  and  defend  it  to  the  last  extremity. 
Truly  and  respectfully  yours, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  217.] 

EXECUTIVE  Oi 

Olympia,  Feb.  2d,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,  ) 


To  the  Captain  of  the  Ranger  Company  : 

SIR  : — Your  duty  will  be  to  scout  the  country  from  the  Skookum 
Chuck  to  the  Nisqually,  and  view  the  prairies  on  the  other  side  of  the 
Nisqually  from  Yelm  prairie. 

For  this  purpose  you  will  post  20  of  your  men  at  the  Yelm  prairie 
block-house  and  20  at  the  Grand  Mound.  IK/I 

There  must  be  daily  communications  between  those  posts,  and  also 
between  each  post  and  Olympia. 

Thus  this  office  will  have  daily  information  of  the  state  of  the  country. 
Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-m-Chiel 


NOTE. — Capt.  Henness  was  elected  Captain  of  this  company,  and  his 
orders  were  modified  ;  fifteen  of  his  company  having  been  left  behind  to 
garrison  Montgomery's  and  the  Yelm,  and  the  rest  of  his  command  having 
gone  forward  on  foot  with  the  battalion. 


281 

[  No.  218.  ] 

OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.   T.  "V.,   ) 
OLYMPIA,  Feb.  llth,  1856.        J 

Capt.  GILMORE  HAYS, 

SIR  : — You  wfll  march  with  your  company  to  Yelm  prairie  at  as  ear 
ly  an  hour  on  to-morrow,  the  12th  February,  as  possible. 

The  wagon  train  in  charge  of  Quartermaster  General  Miller  having 
started  for  that  point,  you  will  endeavor  to  arrive  at  the  site  of  the  pro 
posed  block-house,  on  Yelm  prairie,  as  soon  as  possible. 

You  will  employ  your  command  in  guarding  the  public  property  and 
wagon  train,  and  assisting  in  the  erection  of  the  proposed  defences. 
.  (Signed,)  •  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adj't.  Gen.  W.  T.  Volunteers. 

By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[  No.  219.  ] 

FORT  SKOOKUM,  Feb.  Uth,  1856. 

Gov.   ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

* 

Commander-iu-Chief  Volunteer  Forces : 

SIR  : — I  am  at  the  post  where  you  ordered  me,  and  have  built  a  rude 
fort  on  a  point  of  land  where  I  first  built  the  block-house.     The  bay  forms 
two  lines,  and  we  have  thrown  up  a  stockade  of  timber  about  ten  feet 
high,  having  two  block-houses  so  as  to  rake  the  sides  of  the  stockade  each 
way.     We  have  also  put  up  five  dwelling  houses,  which  the  families  occupy. 
There  have  been  some  rumors  about  the  Claims,  but  the  facts  I  do 
not  know.     We  have  been  very  busily  at  work  here,  and  consequently  I 
have  had  no  time  to  go  any  place  to  see  what  was  going  on.     The  mes 
senger  that  brought  the  news  here  I  conveyed  to  Adjutant  Gen.  Tilton. 
I  await  further  orders. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  CALVIN  W.  SWINDAL, 

Captain  W.  T.  Volunteers. 
36 


282 

[No.  220.  ] 

MAJOR  HAYS'  CAMP,  W.  T.,  ) 

February  24th,  1856.      f 

Gov.  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Commander-in-Chief  : 

SIR  :  —  I  joined  the  forces  at  Montgomery's  according  to  order,  and 
have  marched  on  here  by  order  of  Major  Hays,  and  I  am  ready  to  obey 
orders  at  any  and  all  times. 


Respectfully, 
(Signed,)  C.  W.  SWINDAL, 

Capt.  Company  P,  W.  T.  Volunteers, 


[  No.  221.  ] 

EXECUTP 

February  18th,  1856 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  W.  T.,  | 

:56.          } 


i  .U>>1  .V!4';<M  ~, 

Mr.  CHARLES  W.  RILEY, 

. 

SIR  : — I  am  glad  you  have  taken  steps  to  raise  a  company  for  the 
general  defence  of  the  Territory.  I  hope  you  may  be  able  to  raise  more 
than  you  mention  in  your  communication. 

I  hereby  instruct  you  to  establish  a  post  at  "Lone  Tree  Point,"  and 
to  use  all  energy  in  furtherance  of  the  prosecution  of  the  war. 

When  your  company  is  fully  organized,  report  to  Head  Quarters  and 
send  your  muster  roll,  which  will  enable  you  to  draw  the  rations  for  your 
company.  Move  your  command  forward  immediately.  There  will  be  fifty 
friendly  Indians  at  the  mouth  of  the  Puyallup  on  Friday  night  en  route 
to  the  field  of  action.  ^  ?* 

I  consider  the  occupation  of  the  post  at  "Lone  Tree  Point"  very  im 
portant,  and  it  is  essential  that  it  should  be  maintained  at  all  hazard. 
Truly  and  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


283 

[No.  222.] 

EXECUTIVE  OF 

Feb.  18th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  W.  T., ) 


Capt.  J.  A.  WHITE, 

Commanding  Pioneer  Company  : 

SIR  : — All  the  foot  troops,  and  all  of  Capt.  Henness'  command  but 
15  men,  will,  to-morrow,  move  to  Montgomery's. 

They  will  escort  the  wagon  train  which  will  also  move  to-day  to 
Montgomery's,  under  charge  of  Quartermaster  Miller. 

My  aid-de-camp,  Lieut.  Col.  Hurd,  will  be  at  Montgomery's  to-mor 
row  to  locate  and  lay  out  the  building,  and  his  directions  I  wish  to  be 
complied  with. 

All  the  foot  troops  will  be  expected  to  do  fatigue  duty  in  putting  up 
the  buildings. 

Quartermaster  General  Miller  has  orders  to  require  the  service  of 
every  citizen  in  the  neighborhood  of  Montgomery's. 

It  is  expected  that  these  buildings  will  be  so  far  advanced  oa  Wed 
nesday  and  Thursday,  that  on  Friday  morning  we  can  move  upon  the 
Puyallup. 

The  movement  on  the  Puyallup  will  be  covered  by  fifty  friendly  In 
dians  under  command  of  Sidney  S,  Ford,  Jr.,  of  W.  T.  Volunteers.  Thus 
you  see  the  field  is  open.  Push  your  men  forward  to  Montgomery's  and 
at  once  put  them  at  the  buildings,  and  be  ready  on  Friday  morning  to 
move  to  the  Puyallup.  I  shall  move  with  you. 

On  Thursday,  an  election  for  Major  will  be  held.  Due  notice  will  be 
given. 

Truly,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Comnmnder-m-Chief. 


[No.  223.] 

STEILACOOM,  Feb.  19th,  1856. 

His  Excellency,  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

SIR  : — Your  letter  bearing  date  Feb.  18th,  I  would  reply  to  by  stat 
ing  that  I  immediately  took  the  matter  in  hand,  and  have  succeeded  in 


284 

raising  ten  men.  Owinsi-  to  the  proximity  of  the  station  where  the  most 
of  the  citizens  are  at  work,  and  Capt.  White  having  taken  some  twenty 
men,  we  are  rather  more  deficient  in  men  than  patriotism.  In  compliance 
with  your  inquiry  of  to-day,  I  would  state  that,  to-morrow  we  complete 
our  organization,  and  on  the  following  day  we  will  take  a  scow,  procure 
lumber  on  the  Puyallup,  and  commence  the  block-house,  which  will  be 
ready  for  occupation  on  Sunday. 

Yours,  most  respectfully, 

CHAS.  W.  RILEY. 


[No.  224.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 
OLYMPIA,  Feb.  20th,  1856.          j 

jit  •/{;'.' JLoJ  yjt'Ly.J  f'-'V P-'  •'•'7"."<t  '  ••       •>  biO'V" 

Major  GILMORE  HAYS, 

Com'g.  Central  Battalion,  W.  T.  Volunteers  : 
SIR  : — In  moving  on  Friday  morning  ,on  the  Puyallup,  Montgomery's 
and  Yelm  prairie  will  be  occupied  by  a  portion  of  Capt.  Henness'  com 
mand.     Fifteen  men  is  deemed  by  me  sufficient  for  the  occupation  of  each 
point. 

For  the  completion  of  the  buildings  at  Montgomery's,  Quartermaster 
Miller  is  ordered  by  me  to  keep  all  the  settlers  of  the  neighborhood  at 
work. 

The  remainder  of  Capt.  Henness'  company  will  move  forward  on  foot, 
and  the  horses  sent  back  to  Yelm  prairie  and  Montgomery's  for  safe  keep 
ing  and  general  service. 

Give  the  necessary  orders  and  see  that  the  largest  possible  force 
moves  forward  on  Friday  morning  from  Montgomery's.  We  need  a  very 
small  force  in  our  rear. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 

48*3    {j  o) 


285 

[No.  225.] 

CAMP  3 

February  27th,  1856 


CAMP  MONTGOMERY,  ) 

• ) 


Major  GILMOBE  HAYS, 

Com'g.  Central  Battalion  : 

SIR  : — On  jour  arrival  at  the  Muckleshoot  prairie,  it  is  expected  a 
junction  will  be  made  with  the  regular  troops  under  the  command  of  Lt. 
Col.  Casey,  and  you  are  directed  to  co-operate  with  him  in  the  occupation 
of  that  point  and  in  the  prosecution  of  the  campaign.  This  is  not  intend 
ed  either  directly  or  indirectly  to  place  you  under  the  orders  of  Col.  Casey, 
or  to  make  your  operation  subordinate  to  his.  You  will  exercise  your 
own  judgment,  apply  your  force  in  the  way  which  will  effect  the  greatest 
result,  bearing  in  mind  that  the  part  assigned  to  you  enters  into  a  general 
plan,  which  it  is  hoped  will  ensure  a  blow  being  struck,  and  the  enemy  not 
escaping  out  of  your  hands. 

Lieut.  Col.  Casey  is  an  officer  of  energy  and  experience,  and  from 
my  frequent  conferences  with  him  as  well  as  from  my  knowledge  of  his 
previous  character,  I  am  assured  of  his  disposition  to  co-operate  with  the 
volunteer  forces. 

The  prairie  above  the  falls  of  the  Snoqualmie,  and  an  advance  point 
on  Cedar  creek  on  the  trail,  will  shortly  be  occupied  by  the  available 
troops  of  the  Northern  Battalion ;  and  in  their  operations,  they  will  be 
assisted  by  Pat  Kanim  and  his  band  of  friendly  Indians,  who  has  again 
returned  to  the  field. 

Lone  Tree  Point  is  also  occupied  by  a  force  of  15  n^n;  and  a  band 
of  friendly  Indians,  principally  of  the  Cowlitz  and  Chehalis  tribes,  under 
the  command  of  Capt.  Sydney  S.  Ford,  will  be  pushed  on  to  you  at  the 
Muckleshoot,  as  soon  as  practicable.  They  will  be  informed  and  due 
notice  will  be  given  you. 

In  the  occupation  of  Muckleshoot  prairie,  a  defensive  building,  in  re 
lation  to  which  I  have  already  written  you,  and  a  corral,  will  be  imme 
diately  required. 

On  your  arrival  at  Muckleshoot,  provision  must  at  once  be  made  for 
killing  some  twenty-five  beaves  and  salting  them.  Salt  is  sent  out  and  as 
many  empty  barrels  as  can  be  hauled. 

A  limited  number  of  oxen  should  be  retained  for  labor  around  the 
depot,  finishing  the  building  and  corral  and  for  establishing  auxiliary  de 
fences,  and  for  the  return  of  the  expedition  when  its  object  is  attained,  and 
,a  small  number  might  be  kept  for  fresh  beef. 

The  remainder  of  the  train  should  be  sent  back  to  this  point  with  a 


286 

suitable  guard.     With  block-houses  on  the  route,  the  guard  need  be  but 
small. 

From  the  Muckleshoot  the  operations  must  be  made  without  train  or 
baggage  animals  ;  the  men  carrying,  each  one,  his  blanket  and  havresack 
with  four  days  provisions  on  his  back. 

It  may  be  that  the  train  can  be  returned  through  the  route  to  be 
opened  by  Col.  Casey.  This  you  will  be  able  to  decide  on  conference 
with  that  officer.  My  impression  is  that  if  Col.  Casey  gets  wagons  through 
to  the  Muckleshoot,  it  will  be  on  our  route,  and  that  the  wagons  will  have 
to  return  by  the  route  they  go  out. 

I  hope  to  send  additional  force  to  your  aid,  and  shall  at  once  take 
measures  to  increase  the  numbers  of  the  existing  companies. 

To  take  charge  of  all  the  operations  in  his  department,  Quartermas 
ter  and  Commissary  General  Miller  will  accompany  your  command  and 
bring  back  the  train.  From  his  familiarity  with  the  details  of  transporta 
tion  and  subsistence,  and  his  known  energy  of  character,  I  am  sure  his 
services  will  do  much  to  facilitate  your  operations. 

Before  deciding  to  take  a  different  route  to  the  Muckleshoot  than  by 
Porters,  have  the  ground  carefully  examined  to  the  banks  of  White  river 
— the  crossing  itself  examined,  and  the  route  thence  to  Muckleshoot  praire. 
It  is  known,  we  can  push  the.  train  to  Muckleshoot  ly  Porter's,  and  that  if 
this  good  weather  continues,  we  can  ford  White  river  at  Porter's.  In  mov 
ing  by  Porter's,  I  consider  a  block-house  there  indispensable  as  you  go 
out. 

My  own  impression  is  that  the  surest  and  probably  the  only  practi 
cable  plan  without  extreme  labor  to  reach  the  Muckleshoot,  will  be  by 
Porter's.  It  is  an  important  point  to  occupy  and  should  be  occupied,  and 
a  block-house  built  after  the  occupation  of  Muckleshoot,  if  not  before.  Is 
not  the  grass  better  by  Porter's  ?  But  you  have  been  over  the  ground, 
and  I  leave  the  matter  to  your  own  judgment. 

The  block-houses  at  the  Puyallup  and  at  Porter's,  can,  in  my  judg 
ment,  be  held  by  ten  men  each.  This,  however,  I  leave  to  your  discretion. 

I  send  you  a  brief  memorandum  in  regard  to  the  march  and  the  es 
tablishment  at  the  Muckleshoot,  which  you  will  consider  as  a  part  of 
.these  instructions. 

Report  as  frequently  as  possible,  and  I  will  advise  you  of  operations 
at  other  points.  It  is  hoped  that  a  line  will  be  opened  up  the  Duwamish 
from  Seattle  at  an  early  day.  Trusting  that  the  most  complete  success 
will  crown  your  exertions, 

I  remain,  very  respectfully,  &c., 

ISAAC  I.  STEYENS, 

Grov.  and  Com.  in-Chief. 


NOTES  IN  REGARD  TO  THE  MARCH,  £C. 

1.  Before  moving  the  train  from  point  to  point,  see  that  the  road  is 
opened  and  the  way  clear  to  a  camping  place  at  night,  which,  whenever 
practicable,  should  be  in  a  prairie,  and  gun  shot  from  the  wood. 

2.  The  wagons  should  be  examined  on  reaching  camp  and  be  re 
paired  and  strengthed,  and  broken  down  wagons  with  their  loads  brought 
up. 

3.  The  consumption  of  forage  and  provisions  will,  it  is  hoped,  so 
lighten  the  train  as  to  equalize  the  breaking  down  of  wagons  and  any  in 
creased  difficulty  of  the  road. 

4.  On  moving  from  the  Puyallup,  disabled  oxen  and  their  wagons 
should  be  sent  back.     It  is  not  supposed  that  an  escort  will  be  required. 

5.  The  defensive  building  and  corral  at  the  Muckleshoot  should  be 
gun-shot  from  timber,  or  the  wood  cut  down  within  gun-shot. 

6.  A  good  block-house  should  be  built  at  the  crossing  of  White 
river,  and  a  ferry  established.     This  can  be  done  after  the  establishment 
at  the  Muckleshoot  if  deemed  expedient.     If  the  route  be  by  Porter's,  a 
block-house  should  be  built  there  as  the  expedition  moves  out. 

7.  A  block-house  on  Green  river  on  the  route  towards  Cedar  creek 
and  the  prairie  above  the  falls  of  the  Snoqualmie,  will,  with  a  block-house 
at  Porter's,  protect  the  rear  of  the  establishment  at  the  Muckleshoot.    A 
block-house  is  therefore  recommended  on  Green  river. 


[No.  226.] 

.-;  CAMP  CONN  ELL,  March  2d,  1856. 

EwWMpA  O.J  '  -V  :  I  tx-fo  yd  iXKbflV  i  ^<j.itt  til 

Gov.  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Commander-in-Chief,  W.  T.  V.,  Olympia  : 

SIR  : — Since  my  arrival  at  this  camp,  I  have  thought  this  point  the 
proper  one  for  our  main  depot  of  provisions.  We  have  reason  to  believe 
that  the  hostile  Indians  are  opposite  or  above  our  encampment,  and  be 
tween  the  White  and  Green  rivers.  Col.  Casey  is  going  to  establish  his 
post  eight  miles  below  on  the  Muckleshoot  prairie.  If  none  pass  below 
him,  there  will  be  left  a  large  scope  of  country  unprotected,  into  which 


288 

they  may  and  will  most  likely  pass,  just  so  soon  as  we  leave  this  position. 
A  main  depot  here  would  supply  lesser  ones  on  the  other  side  of  the  river 
(one  of  which  I  think  should  be  at  or  near  Porter's,)  and  with  much  less 
risk  and  exposure.  A  main  depot  here,  too,  would  leave  our  rear  fully 
protected.  I  think  it  questionable  whether  we  can  establish  a  ferry  that 
will  carry  wagons,  owing  to  the  great  rapidity  with  which  the  river  runs. 
From  this  post,  we  could  get  provisions  at  any  time,  by  means  of  a 
small  boat,  to  a  block-house  on  the  other  side  of  the  river,  from  which  we 
would  make  our  excursions  into  the  Green  river  country.  I  have,  for  these 
reasons,  halted  here  until  I  can  hear  from  you,  and  in  the  interval  will 
employ  the  force  at  my  disposal  to  the  erection  of  a  store-house,  &c. 
Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

GILMORE  HAYS, 

Com'g.  Central  Battalion. 


[No.  227.] 

OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  Y., ) 
Olympia,  March  3d,  1856.          ) 

Major  HAYS, 

Com?g.  Central  Battalion,  W.  T.  Yolunteers  : 

SIR  : — Your  letter  of  March  2d,  announcing  the  engagement  of  the 
regulars,  commanded  by  Capt.  Keyes,  on  the  White  river,  and  your  sug 
gestion  to  establish  a  main  depot  for  provisions  at  Camp  Connell  to  supply 
others  in  the  advance,  &c.,  is  received. 

In  reply,  I  am  instructed  by  the  Governor  to  express  his  concurrence 
in  these  views,  from  the  facts  set  forth,  viz  :  The  unanimity  of  opinion 
on  the  subject  between  Col.  Casey  and  yourself,  and  the  confidence  felt  in 
your  judgment. 

You  will  carry  out  the  original  orders  relative  to  the  establishment 
of  a  block-house,  but  erect  it  at  ConnelFs. 

With  regard  to  the  disposition  of  the  wagon  train  and  fresh  beef, 
&c.,  you  are  referred  to  the  special  instructions  given  by  the  Commander- 
in-Chief,  dated  Feb.  28th,  1856. 


289 

The  occupation  of  the  Muckleshoot  being  already  effected  by  the 
regular  forces  under  Col.  Casey,  it  seems  unnecessary  for  the  Central  Bat 
talion  to  erect  another  system  of  defenses  there,  consequently  you  will  es 
tablish  a  block-house  at  Council's,  keeping  open  a  communication  with  the 
force  occupying  the  Mnckleshoot,  co-operate  vvith  each  other,  or  act  sing 
ly  as  circumstances  may  in  your  judgment  dictate. 

In  regard  to  the  block-house  on  the  north  side  of  White  river,  at 
Conneli's,  it  seems  to  be  the  best  side  for  commaiiication  with  the  forces 
already  upon  the  Muckleshoot.  The  Governor  depends  upon  your  discre 
tion  and  knowledge  of  the  country  in  the  matter. 

Some  small  parties  of  the  enemy  hav3  been  in  the  vicinity  of  Nathan 
Eaton's  for  several  days,  and  yesterday  killed  Mr.  Wm.  White.  A  par 
ty  of  nine  men,  headed  by  Mr.  James  Roberts,  marched  hence  last  night 
in  quest  of  these  murderers,  and  with  orders  to  seize  and  take  to  Fort 
Nisqunlly  the  settlers  near  Montgomery's  and  the  Muck,  suspected  of 
harboring  the  enemy. 

A  block-house  at  Porter's  is  deemed  essential. 
I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 

JAMES  TILTON, 
Adjutant  General  W.  T.  Y. 

By  order  of  the  Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  228.J 

CAMP  CONNELL,  March  6th,  1856. 

JAMES  TILTON,  ESQ., 

Adj?t  Gen.  W.  T.  Y.,  Olympia : 

SIR  : — Major  Hays  instructs  mo  to  inform  you  that  a  good  arid  sub 
stantial  block-house  has  beeneonstructed  at  this  point,  with  a  lower  story 
20  by  20  feet,  the  upper  one  22  by  22  ;  that  by  to-morrow  night  two 
pens  will  be  completed  18  by  20  each,  for  quarters  for  the  accommodation 
of  the  battalion.  A  good  strong  corral  has  been  made  for  the  safe  keep 
ing  of  cattle. 

The  White  river  has  been  examined  relative  to  a  ferry  and  block- 
3T 


290 

house  on  its  banks.  No  place  has  been  found  where  a  ferry  can  be  made 
useful  without  constructing  the  house  for  its  protection  on  this  side.  The 
house,  it  is  intended,  to  erect  the  day  after  to-morrow.  At  present  the 
ferry  is  of  but  little  use,  the  river  being  quite  low. 

The  Indians  occupied  the  prairie  in  the  vicinity  of  Porter's  up  to 
yesterday,  when  being  discovered  by  scouts,  they  broke  camp  and  made 
for  Green  river. 

The  regulars  notified  Major  Hays  last  night  that  they  had  discovered 
a  large  cainp,  and  asked  for  co-operation  in  aa  attack  upon  them  at  an 
early  hour  this  morning.  At  day-light,  one  hundred  men  marched  from 
our  camp  to  join  in  the  attack,  but  when  they  arrived  the  Indians  were 
gooe,  having  left  as  soon  as  their  identity  was  known.  They  had  a  strong 
fortification  on  the  verge  of  a  large  swamp,  made  of  heavy  timbers,  some 
five  feet  high,  with  two  sets  of  port  holes.  The  retreat  from  this  house  or 
fortification  was  under  ground  in  the  direction  of  the  swamp.  The  tim 
bers  were  thrown  down  and  burnt. 

I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

B.  F.  RUTH, 

Adj't.  Central  Battalion,  W.  T.  V. 
7  '.T  .VV  Jk*-m.,  J  .);'. 


[No.  229.] 

CAMP  CONNELL,  March  10th,  1856. 

His  Excellency  I.  I.  STEVENS,. 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief  W.  T.  V.,  Olympia  : 

SIR  :— At  about  8  o'clock  this  morning,  Capt,  White,  with  his  com 
pany  were  ordered  to  the  White  river  to  build  a  block  house  and  ferry, 
supported  by  Capt.  Swindal  and  ten  privates.  He  had  not  proceeded 
more  than  half  a  mile  from  camp,  when  he  was  attacked  by  -a  large  Indi 
an  force,  supposed  to  be  at  least  one  hundred  and  fifty  warriors,  and  a 
large  number  of  squaws.  I  immediately  forwarded  Capt.  Hermess  to  his 
support  with  twenty  men.  Captain  H.  moved  with  great  rapidity,  a  tre 
mendous  volley  of  guns  announcing  his  arrival.  I  became  satisfied  that 
additional  force  was  necessary,  and  despatched  Lieut.  Martin,  of  Co.  B, 


291 

with  fifteen  additional  men.  The  Indians  by  this  time  were  seen  extend 
ing  their  flanks  to  the  left  with  rapidity.  I  then  forwarded  Lieut.  Yan 
Ogle,  Co.  B,  with  fifteen  men  to  check  their  flank  movement,  but  before 
he  could  gain  a  position  they  had  so  extended  their  line  as  to  make  it  ne 
cessary  to  send  another  party  of  twelve  men  under  command  of  Captain 
Rabbeson,  who  succeeded  in  checking  them.  The  fight  by  this  time  ex 
tended  the  whole  length  of  our  line,  and  one  continuous  volley  could  be 
heard  from  the  Indian  guns  on  the  hill  and  those  of  our  men  in  the  bot 
tom.  This  firing  continued  some  two  hours.  I  saw  the  advantage  which 
the  Indians  had  in  position,  and  determined  to  charge  them.  I  ordered 
Capt.  Swindal  to  charge  them  from  his  position,  which  was  central,  and 
Capt.  Rabbeson  to  make  a  simultaneous  move  against  their  extreme  left, 
while  Capt.  Henness  and  Capt.  White  were  ordered  to  hold  the  position 
which  they  occupied. 

This  order  was  promptly  obeyed,  and  the  charge  made  in  the  most 
gallant  style  by  Capt.  Swindal  against  their  centre,  and  Captain  Rabbe- 
son  against  their  left,  through  a  deep  slough,  driving  the  enemy  from  his 
position  and  pursuing  them  some  distance  in  their  flight.  Capt.  Rabbe- 
son  returned  to  camp,  while  Capt.  Swiudal  took  a  position  on  a  high  ridge 
in  the  rear  of  the  main  body  of  Indians.  I  ordered  Capt.  Rabbeson  to 
take  his  men  and  join  Captains  Henness  and  White,  and  to  say  to  Capt. 
Henness  to  charge  the  Indians  from  his  position  if  he  deemed  it  advisable. 
The  Indians  in  front  of  Captains  White  and  Henness  held  a  strong  posi 
tion  from  behind  logs  and  trees,  and  from  an  elevated  hill.  It  was  deem 
ed  too  dangerous  to  charge  them  in  front.  Capt.  Rabbeson  was  ordered 
to  take  a  few  men  and  join  Capt.  Swindal  to  make  a  flank  movement  to 
the  right  and  charge  the  enemy  in  his  rear.  This  they  .succeeded  in  do 
ing  in  the  same  gallant  manner  that  they  had  done  at  an 'early  hour  du 
ring  the  fight.  Simultaneous  with  this  movement,  Captains  Henness  and 
White  charged  them  in  front.  The  Indians  were  routed,  put  to  flight, 
and  pursued  for  a  mile  or  more  along  a  trail  or  trails  covered  with  blood. 
It  is  believed  that  not  less  than  twenty-five  or  thirty  Indians  were  killed 
dead  on  the  field,  and  many  wounded — they  were  seen  carrying  off  their 
wounded  and  dead  from  the  time  the  fight  commenced  until  it  termina 
ted.  Withs  .and  ropes  were  found  on  the  ground  they  occupied,  which 
hade  been  used  in  dragging  off  their  dead  into  the.  bush.  Hats,  blarkets 
and  shirts  were  picked  up  with  bullet  holes  in  them,  stained  with  blood. 
They  were  forced  to  give  up  their  drum,  which  they  abandoned  in  their 
retreat.  But  two  Indians  were  found  dead  on  the  field,  one  of  whom  is 
recognized  as  Chehalis  John,  the  other  was  placed  under  a  log,  and  has 
not  yet  been  examined.  I  regard  the  victory  of  this  day  as  complete — 
a  grand  triumph.  Ths  Indians  had  together  their  whole  force.  They 


292 

picked  tlieir  own  ground.  They  brought  on  the  attack  without  being 
seen  by  our  own  troops.  They  exceeded  us  in  numbers  nearly  if  not  quite 
two  to  one,  and  we  whipped  and  drove  them  before  us.  I  do  but  justice 
to  the  officers  and  privates  when  I  say  each  acted  a  distinguished  part  in 
this  figlit— each  performed  his  whole  duty.  I  gave  no  command  that 
was  not  obeyed  most  promptly,  let  the  danger  be  ever  so  gm:t.  There 
was  the  most  vigorous  effort  on  the  part  of  every  man  from  the  captain 
to  the  private  to  render  Ids  country  service  and  his  name  conspicuous. 

It  is  proper  that  I  should  state  that  Mr.  James  Goudy  rendered  im 
portant  service  in  carrying  intelligence"  from  place  to  place  during  the 
fight,  and  is  deserving  of  the  highest  praise. 

I  cannot  close  this  communication  without  referring  to  the  smaliness 
of  our  force,  being  but  110  men,  all  told,  and  to  the  still  more  important 
fact  tha't,  in  my  judgment,  if  our  force  had  been  but  100  men  more  to 
day,  we  could  have  captured  or  cut  to  pieces  the  whole  of  the  Indians 
engaged  in  arms  against  us  on  this  side  of  the  mountains.  Col.  Casey 
would  have  gladly  furnished  us  aid,  but  his  force  were  all  absent  on  scouts. 
In  this  fight  we  had  four  men  wounded,  all  of  whom  I  think,  will  soon 
get  well. 

In  haste, 

GILMORE  HAYS, 
Commanding  Central  Battalion,  W.  T.  V. 


[No.  230.] 


OFFICE  ADJUTANT   GENERAL, 
Olympia,  March  12tb,  1856. 


Capt.  MAXON, 

Commanding  Mounted  Rifles  : 

SIR  : — After  detaching  twenty-five  men  to  escort  a  train  to  Fort 
Connell,  you  will  proceed  to  range  with  the  remainder  of  your  company 
up  the  right  bank  of  the  Deschutes  river  by  Chamber's  and  the  Tenal- 
quot  prairie,  and  return  by  the  Gravelly  prairie  to  this  point.  Indian 
signs  were  yesterday  seen  in  that  quarter,  particularly  on  the  Tenalquot 
prairie. 


293 

On  Chamber's  prairie  lives  Nathan  Eaton,  and  on  the  Tenalquot 
Charles  Eaton,  both  excellent  guides,  and  who  will  be  able  to  communi 
cate  the  most  reliable  information  as  to  the  presence  of  Indians.  On  the 
Tenalquot  prairie  is  a  large  quantity  of  grain,  which  the  quartermaster  is 
having-  hauled  for  the  use  of  the  troops. 

On  ranging  through  the  Teualquot,  it  is  left  to  your  discretion,  how 
ever,  to  modify  these  instructions,  should  the  information  there  be  gained 
that  the  Indians  can  be  struck  in  some  other  quarter. 

Your  general  field  of  ranging  will  be  from  the  Deschutes  to  the  Pu- 
yallup.  The  Indians,  before  proceeding  to  the  Desehutes,  had  for  some 
weeks  infested  the  Nesqually  bottom,  and  there  was  good  reason  to  be 
lieve  that  they  had  received  aid  and  comfort  from  certain  retired  servants 
of  the  Hudson's  Bay  Company  and  others,  who  were  intermarried  with 
the  hostiles.  These  settlers  have  been  ordered  under  guard  at  Fort  Nes- 
qually  and  at  Steilacoom. 

.'.!&£  ;«ifj 

Their  names  are  as  follows  :  Charles  Wren,  Sandy  Smith,  —  Smith, 
two  Hurrays,  Gravelle  and  Latour.  They  have  received  instruc 
tions  not  to  come  back  upon  their  claims,  or  to  leave  the  vicinity  of  Nes- 
qually  and  Steilacoom  on  pain  of  being  considered  enemies. 

Should  you  conclude  from  the  Tenalquot  to  proceed  in  the  direction 
of  the  Yelm,  your  attention  is  called  particularly  to  the  country  lying  im 
mediately  north  of  the  Nesqually  from  the  Yelm  to  Fort  Nesqually.  In 
this  district  lies  the  American  plain,  where  the  hostile  Indians  are  said  to 
have  all  their  stock,  and  also  to  the  country  lying  towards  the  source  of 
the  Nesqually,  where  are  many  wild  cattle,  alleged  to  belong  to  the  Puget 
Sound  Agricultural  Company,  which  would  furnish  provisions  to  the  ene 
my.  Here  also,  are  prairies,  and  it  is  apprehended  that  when  the  main 
body  of  the  Indians  are  driven  out  of  the  country  they  now  occupy  be 
tween  Green  and  White  rivers,  they  may  seek  to  gain  these  prairies  at 
the  sources  of  the  Nesqually. 

It  will  be  proper  to  inform  you  that  a  band  of  fourteen  friendly  In 
dians,  under  Lieut.  Gosnell,  are  now  ranging  in  the  Nesqually  bottom. 
They  are  dressed  as  follows  :  Blue  flannel  shirts  and  blue  caps  with  red 
bands,  and  have  white  men  with  them. 

You  will  find  upon  the  Nesqually  plains  large  flocks  of  sheep  belong 
ing  to  the  Puget  Sound  Agricultural  Company  in  charge  of  white  shep 
herds.  The  Indian  wives  of  these  men  are  all  ordered  into  Fort  Nes 
qually.  You  will  narrowly  watch  for  any  signs  of  communication  be 
tween  these  shepherds  and  any  Indians. 


294 

All  Indians  found  in  your  field  of  operations,   except  those  before 
described,  are  to  be  considered  as  enemies. 

Keport  to  this  office  as  frequently  as  possible. 
Respectfully, 

J.  TILTON, 
y  Adft  Gertl  W.  T.  V. 
By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-chief,  W.  T.  Y. 


[No.  231.] 

OFFICE 

Olympia,  March  13th,  1856, 


OFFICE  ADJUTANT   GENERAL,  W.  T.  V., ) 


Maj.  G.  HAYS, 

Comd'g  Central  Battalion,  2d  Regt.  W.  T.  V.: 

Sm  :— Your  despatch,  dated  "  Camp  Coimell,  March  10th,  1856,  " 
announcing  the  success  achieved  by  the  gallantry  and  constancy  of  the 
troops  under  your  command,  is  received.  This  victory  has  inspired  the 
most  lively  satisfaction  throughout  the  country,  and  reflects  great  credit 
upon  the  battalion  and  the  Territory. 

The  Commander-in-Chief  desires  me  to  communicate  his  gratification 
to  the  Central  battalion,  and  express  to  yourself,  Capts.  Swindal,  Hen- 
ness,  Rabbeson  and  White,  and  the  officers  and  men  of  the  command,  his 
thanks  for  the  efficient  and  daring  service  rendered  at  the  battle  of  Con- 
nell's  prairie. 

The  charge  you  speak  of  made  by  the  volunteers,  and  the  result  as 
shown  by  the  twenty-five  or  thirty  slain  of  the  enemy,  exhibit  unmistak 
able  evidence  of  the  valor  and  discipline  of  the  Central  battalion. 

The  morale  of  the  enemy  being  now  broken  by  the  shock  it  has  re 
ceived  from  the  blow  lately  inflicted  by  the  Central .  battalion,  following 
so  rapidly  upon  the  defeat  of  the  enemy  lately  sustained  from  the  U.  S. 
regulars  under  the  gallant  Col.  Casey  of  the  9th  infantry,  it  is  confidently 
expected  that  these  savages  will  be  speedily  annihilated  or  driven  over 
the  Cascades. 

Reinforcements  are  being  moved  up  towards  your  line  of  operations 
.as  rapidly  as  possible.  The  Southern  battalion,  under  Lt.  Col.  Shaw,  is 


295 


ordered  from  the  Columbia  river  to  assist  in  following   up  the  blow  the 
Central  battalion  have  so  well  bestowed. 

Captain  Maxon's  company  of  horse  is  here  from  the  Columbia,  and 
are  ranging  the  country  from  Fort  Henness  to  Montgemery's,  and  pro 
tecting  the  trains  moving  towards  the  White  river  country. 

Agents  have  been  despatched  to  California  and  Vancouver's  Island 
for  supplies,  and  it  will  be  the  subject  of  vigilant  attention  at  head  quar 
ters  that  the  brave  and  devoted  citizen  soldiers  now  shedding  their  blood 
and  devoting  their  service  to  their  country,  shall  be  supplied  with  every 
facility  accessible,  during  the  war,  and  of  the  greatful  remembrance  of  a 
suffering  people  in  all  time  to  come,  they  may  well  assure  themselves  of. 
Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
r;  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  Y. 

By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  232.] 

FORT  H 

March  15th,  1856. 


FORT  HAYS,  CONNELL'S  PRAIRIE,    ) 


Gov,  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Com.-in-Chief  W.  T.  Volunteers,  Olympia: 

SIR  : — The  Captains  of  the  several  companies  have  unanimously 
named  this  post  "Fort  Hays,"  hence  the  above  heading. 

####  #  *  #  # 

On  yesterday  while  Capt.  White  was  prosecuting  work  on  the  block 
house  on  the  river,  a  small  party  of  Indians,  twelve  or  fifteen  in  number, 
crawled  up  on  the  opposite  bank  and  fired  a  volley  into  the  ranks,  wound 
ing  one  of  tho  men  belonging  to  Co.  C.  Capt.  Henness,  with  his  com 
pany,  was  guarding  the  Pioneers  at  the  time.  The  place  which  has  been 
selected  for  the  ferry  and  block  house  is  the  only  place  found  where  a  ferry 
can  be  established — at  this  point  the  block  house  has  to  be  built  on  this 
side — the  opposite  bank  of  the  river  being  a  high  bluff  without  sufficient 
room  to  build  a  fort. 


-ll-    rn  . 

Believing  that  the  main  body  of  Indians  are  not  far  distant  from 
our  camp,  and  knowing  that  their  wounded  must  be  great,  I  addressed  a 
note  to  '"I.  Casey  yesterday  evening,  asking  his  co-operation  in  a  grand 
move  u;-  \  \st  them,  to  be  followed  up  from  day  to  day  until  we  could 
overs  c.ke  lih-iii  in  their  strong  hold,  and  1  think  we  will  be  able  to  capture 
or  kill  tiuj'iiuiiii  body  of  their  army.  He  was  not  in  camp,  having  left  for 
SteilacGGih  to  confer  with  Gen.  Wool.  Capt.  Keyes,  who  was  in  com 
mand,  agreed  to  co-operate  .with  us  as  soon  as  the  men  return  to  camp, 
which  will  be  on  Monday  or  Tuesday  next.  I  shall  be  able  to  join  them 
with  75  or  80  men  as  at  present  situated,  who,  I  feel,  will  render  a  good 
account  of  themselves. 

Since  my  report  of  our  fight  of  the  10th?  many  facts  have  come  to 
my  knowledge,  which  satisfy  me  that  the  number  of  Indians  was  under 
estimated.  There  could  not  have  been  less  than  200  warriors  on  the 
ground.  There  can  be  no  doubt  but  that  the  Puyallup  Indians,  the  same 
rascals  who  received  passes  to  go  to  the  reservations,  were  in  the  fight. 
Their  trails  were  found  going  to  and  from  the  battle  ground. 

Capt.  Henness  was  sent  two  days  before  the  fight  with  a  party  of 
twenty-five  men  to  examine  the  country  south  of  this  place.  In  his  ex 
cursion,  he  traveled  S.  W.  seven  miles  and  struck  the  Puyallup  river,  fol 
lowed  up  the  middle  fork  eight  miles.  His  spies  saw  several  Indians  fish 
ing,  without  clothes  (except  a  shirt)  or  guns.  They  got  away  unharmed. 
As  far  up  as  this  point,  the  country  is  mountainous — the  river  passing 
through  deep  canyons  without  bottom  lands  on  either  side.  On  his  re 
turn  trip  he  passed  the  small  prairies  on  the  north  fork  of  the  Puyallup. 
Saw  no  Indians  and  no  signs  of  any  of  recent  date — found  a  camp  which 
had  been  vacated  some  15  or  20  days  previously,  which  he  supposed  to 
have  been  a  winter  camp  of  the  Puyallups — their  horses  having  traveled 
down  the  river.  He  thinks  there  are  no  Indians  in  this  region,  except  a 
few  renegades,  who  seek  safety  by  hiding  in  the  canyons  and  dense  for 
ests  of  timber  in  that  mountainous  region.  We  have  also  sent  scouts  in 
the  direction  of  "  Stuck;"  found  no  signs  of  Indians.  The  country  two 
miles  west  from  camp  is  an  immense  swamp  :  impenetrable  to  wolves. 

Very  respectfully, 

GILMORE  HAYS, 
Comd'g  Central  Battalion,  W,  T.  V. 


297 

[No.  233.] 

EXECUTIV 

Olympia,  March  Hth,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 


Major  G.  HAYS, 

Commanding  Central  Battalion,  Fort  Hays  : 

SIR: — Your  Captains  have  shown  a  just  appreciation  of  their  com 
mander,  and  the  name  they  have  given  to  the  post  on  ConnelPs  prairie 
will  be  most  cheerfully  remembered  at  head  quarters,  and  what  is  better, 
by  the  people  of  the  Territory. 

I  am  highly  gratified  with  your  report  of  the  15th,  as  it  shows  a  most 
excellent  spirit  in  your  command.  Your  views  as  to  securing  the  ferry 
are  approved. 

Rely  upon  it,  every  exertion  will  be  made  to  strengthen  your  com 
mand,  and  you  may  expect  in  a  few  days,  a  considerable  accession  to  your 
force. 

You  will  consider  every  Indian  on  the  eastern  shore  of  the  Sound, 
from  this  point  to  the  Saohomish,  as  an  enemy,  except  such  as  are  em 
ployed  by  the  military  as  spies  and  scouts. 

5|C  3(C  3JS  JfC  JjC  3ft  3|C  3JC 

In  your  forward  movements,  have  an  eye  to  the  'Nachess  pass,  and 
as  you  approach  it  in  operating  against  the  enemy,  secure  your  advance 
by  block  houses. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  Washington  Territory. 


[No.  234.] 

EXECUTIV] 

OLYMPIA,  March  18,    1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 


Capt.  H.  J.  G.  MAXON, 

Comd'g  Washington  Mounted  Rifles  : 

SIR  : — The  confidential  duty  which  Isaac  W.  Smith,  Esq.,  and  your- 
38 


298 

self  were  detached  for,  is  suspended  for  the  present.  The  suspected  per 
sons  ordered  from  their  farms,  we  have  received  information  are  at  Nes- 
qually  and  Steilacoom. 

You  will  leave  five  of  your  men  at  Fort  Stevens  on  Yelm  :  take 
the  balance  of  your  command  and  proceed  to  the  Nesqually,  and  operate 
between  the  head  of  South  Bay  and  McAllister's  mill,  in  conjunction  with 
a  party  of  friendly  Indians  who  will  operate  from  Johnson's  Point,  on  the 
Sound,  under  the  command  of  Lt.  Gosnell.  You  will  know  the  Indians 
by  their  having  a  red  band  around  their  caps.  The  bearer  of  this,  Mr. 
Mounts,  will  be  your  guide,  and  will  take  you  to  where  you  can  procure 
forage  for  your  horses. 

I  expect  you  to  move  from  Yelin  on  Thursday  morning. 
Respectfully, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Gov.  and  Com, -in-Chief,  W.  T.  V. 


*/iJ07  il 


[No.  235.] 

FORT  HAYS,  CONNELL'S  PRAIRIE,  > 
March  24th,  1856.  > 

His  Excellency,  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief,  Olympia,  W.  T.: 
SIR: — On  the  19th  inst.,  I  crossed  the  White  river  with  65  men, 
and  constructed  a  block  house — first  story  26  x  22,  second  28  x  24.  On 
the  21st  inst.,  I  sent  a  party  of  35  men  to  Boise  river,  four  miles  east  of 
Porter's,  to  look  after  Indians — they  returned  after  examining  the  prai 
ries  north  of  that  stream  in  the  direction  of  Green  river,  but  discovered 
no  Indians.  They  report  that  all  the  trails  seen  go  up  White  river. 
They  believe  that  all  the  Indians  from  the  Green  river  country  have  fallen 
into  the  White  river  trail  and  are  trying  either  to  cross  over  to  this  side 
of  White  river,  and  pass  near  the  mountains  on  to  the  head  waters  of 
the  Puyallup,  or  the  Nesqually.  I  have  determined  to  ascertain  whether 
they  have  re-crossed  to  this  side,  and  will  to-day  send  a  party  of  twenty 
men  to  find  out.  The  Indians  are  evidently  much  alarmed,  and  are  flying 


299 

before  us  rapidly  as  possible — leaving  behind  their  poor  horses — five  of 
which  we  have  taken.  I  should  judge  them  to  be  in  a  starving  condition, 
from  the  fact  that  we  have  found  a  number  of  their  horses  killed  for  food. 
I  think  they  have  but  little  stock  left. 

If  they  have  passed  up  White  river  with  a  view  to  go  over  the 
mountains,  I  am  afraid  they  will  succeed  in  escaping,  as  it  will  be  impos 
sible  to  follow  them,  owing  to  the  swollen  condition  of  the  streams,  which 
are  now  impassable. 

I  think  they  started  from  their  encampment  the  day  after  the  fight, 
and  if  they  continued  to  travel  they  passed  the  White  river  before  its 
waters  were  up.  I  am  able  to  see  the  Cascade  range,  and  there  is  but 
little  snow  on  its  highest  peaks. 

I  hope  they  may  not  have  purposed  crossing  the  mountains.  If  they 
have  not,  we  shall  soon  be  able  to  catch  them.  The  regulars,  with  350 
men,  passed  Porter's  on  the  22d,  with  the  hope  of  surprising  a  camp  on 
Green  river.  I  hope  they  may  not  be  disappointed,  but  fear  they  will 
They  took  the  camp  of  Indians  on  the  Puyallup  prisoners,  from  whom  I 
suppose  they  have  gained  information  of  importance.  The  river  was  im 
passable,  or  I  suppose  they  would  have  communicated  the  news. 
I  am,  very  respectfully, 

GILMORE  HAYS, 
Com'g  Central  Battalion,  W.  T.  Y. 


[No.  236.] 

TENALQUOT  PRAIRIE,  March  24th,  1856. 

JAMES  TILTON,  Esq., 

Adj.  General  W.  T.  Y.,  Olympia  : 

SIR  : — On  the  17th  inst.,  we  discovered  Indian  spies  lurking  about 
our  camp.  We  trailed  them  towards  Yelm  prairie  ;  learned  there  that 
they  had  been  chased  from  a  barn  about  two  miles  to  the  westward  of 
Fort  Stevens.  We  went  same  day  to  Gravelle's.  He  stated  that  he 
went  when  and  where  he  pleased  without  arms,  same  as  he  always  had 


BOO 

done—  that  the  Indians  said  that  they  would  not  hurt  the  French  or  En 
glish. 

18th.—  I  ordered  in  all  the  provisions  which  the  Indians  might  easily 
get,  and  told  Mr.  Kirtley  to  report  the  amount  and  kind  of  provisions  to 
the  quartermaster  at  Olympia. 

19th.  —  Remained  at  Yelrn. 

20th.—  Went  to  head  of  South  Bay. 

21st.  —  Went  to  Johnson's  Point.  Sent  part  of  my  command  to  the 
left  —  Lieut.  Grosnell  going  to  the  right. 

22d.  —  Divided  my  command  in  small  parties  and  searched  the  woods 
from  head  of  South  Bay  to  Nesqually  Bay  and  McAllister's  creek. 

23d.  —  Searched  Nesqually  bottom  to  near  the  Yelin  ford  ;  on  west 
side  found  signs  of  Indians. 

I  am  going  up  the  Deschutes  to-day;  shall  be  ready  for  further  or 
ders  to-morrow. 

Respectfully, 

H.  J.  G.  MAXON, 

Captain  Washington  Mounted  Rifles, 


[No.  237-] 

Olympia,  March  -2,6th,  1856. 


ADJUTANT  GENEJRAL,  W.  T.  Y.,   ) 


Capt.  H.  J.  Gr.  MAXON, 

Commanding  Mounted  Rifles : 

Sm  : — You  will  proceed  by  the  way  of  Fort  Stevens  with  your  com 
pany,  and  make  a  scout  up  the  Nesqually  river  as  far  as  you  can  carry 
supplies.  From  the  Nesqually  you  will  proceed  to  Connell's  prairie,  and 
form  a  junction  with  the  Central  battalion;  your  route  being  by  the  high 
est  practicable  trail  at  the  head  waters  of  the  Nesqually  and  Puyallup 
rivers, 

Capt.  Achilles  will  co-operate  with  you  on  this  duty,  and  will  report 
to  you  for  orders. 

It  is  supposed  you  can  take  your  horses  some  distance  up  the  Nes- 
.qually,  and  perhaps  to  the  prairies,  or  until  you  ascertain  whether  you 
can  march  from  the  Nesqually  prairies  to  those  of  the  Puyallup.  Should 


301 

you,  however,  find  the  grass  insufficient,  you  will  leave  your  horses  at  Fort 
Stevens,  or  some  other  suitable  place.  Of  this  you  will  be  the  judge. 
Of  course  you  cannot  subsist  your  animals  after  joining  the  Central  bat 
talion,  and  it  will  be  better  perhaps,  to  take  them  but  one  day's  march 
from  Fort  Stevens,  as  it  would  weaken  your  force  to  give  them  a  sufficient 
escort  back  thence  from,  say  two  or  three  day's  march  from  that  post,  or 
use  your  discretion  to  leave  your  horses  and  move  with  the  entire  strength 
of  the  two  companies. 

Very  respectfully,  &c., 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adj't  Gen.  W.  T.  V. 
By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-chief. 


[No.  238.] 

CAMP  McCLouD,  March  30th,  1856. 

Adj't  Gen.  JAMES  TILTON, 

W.  T.  T.,  Olympia : 

-\  /  •/          4. 


gm . — On  my  way  to  this  place  I  found  the  prisoners  I  send  to  you, 
at  their  homes.  They  all  acknowledged  that  they  were  violating  the  or 
ders  of  the  Governor.  I  considered  it  my  duty  to  send  them  to  the  Gov 
ernor,  and  state  that  I  consider  them  guilty  of  treason,  and  can  prove 
Wren  guilty  of  giving  aid  and  comfort,  by  Orterland,  who  belongs  to  my 
company.  McLoud  alleges  that  he  has  been  robbed,  but  has  evidently 
'cached"  his  property,  as  my  men  have  found  the  very  things  that  he  says 
he  has  lost.  I  think  it  useless  to  try  to  get  the  Indians  while  these  men 
are  allowed  to  remain  here. 

The   Indians  have  been  and  are  near  here.     Not  more  than  three 
have  been  seen  at  once. 

I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient,       > 

H.  J.  G.  MAXON, 

Captain  Mounted  Rifles, 


302 

[No.  239.] 

OFFICE  ADJ'T  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V.,    ) 
Olympia,  4th  April,  1856. 

rMit   '-'/  f    -     /v   ^      ;•'  •:•'  •  '      '    •'"  .- 


Major.  HAYS, 

Commanding  Central  Battalion; 

Sm  : —  After  Capt.  White  reports  the  ferry  at  the  Puyallup  re-es 
tablished,  you  will  order  him  to  make  a  road  from  Fort  Hays  to  a  conve 
nient  point  on  South  prairie,  where  you  will  cause  a  block  house  to  be 
erected. 

Respectfully, 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adj't  Gen.  W.  T.  Y. 
By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  240.] 

OFFICE  ADJ'T  GENERAL,  W.  T.  Y., ) 

Olympia,  W.  T.,  April  6,  1856.  } 

'  •'„  (><  -  Jjjl([  ii.'Lj  Oi  ~sy,"<-'  7ui  nU  -    :  rr.l^5 

Maj.  GILMORE  HAYS, 

Commanding  Central  Battalion : 

SIR  : — From  information  received  at  this  office  from  various  sources, 
and  considered  reliable,  the  enemy  may  be  expected  by  a  pass  through 
the  Cascades  south  of  Ranier. 

Capt.  Maxon  has  just  returned  from  a  scout  of  forty  miles  from 
Fort  Stevens  towards  the  Pass.  He  brought  in  fourteen  prisoners,  and 
killed  eight  men  of  the  enemy,  of  whom  but  3  escaped  from  the  rapid 
and  effective  fire  of  his  party. 

He  was  obliged  to  return  for  provisions,  and  lived  on  Indian  food  for 
a  day  or  two.  He  states  that  if  he  had  had  horses  he  could  have  kept 
on  by  eating  the  animals. 

He  is  going  out  again  to-morrow,  and  will  scout  in  the  same  direc 
tion. 

You  will  leave  Major  Yan  Bokkelen  in  command  of  the  post  you 
have  established  on  the  White  river,  and  after  the  Pioneers  have  re-estab- 


303 

lished  the  ferry  over  the  Puyallup,  proceed  with  your  battalion  to  South 
prairie,  erect  a  block  house  at  some  convenient  point  as  possible,  and; 
keep  in  readiness  to  move  towards  the  Nesqually  pass  of  the  Cascades, 
It  is  proposed  for  your  command  to  proceed  from  the  South  prairie  to 
the  south  east,  to  Michael's  fork  of  the  Nesqually,  and  erect  there  another 
block  house. 

You  will  employ  upon  the  work  of  opening  roads  and  building  block 
houses  all  the  force  at  your  command,  not  employed  in  making  scouts,  or 
on  guard,  arrange  your  guards  so  that  a  man  may  be  twenty-four  hours 
on  and  twenty-four  hours  off,  strengthen  the  Pioneer  company  during  its 
employment  in  cleaning  out  the  roads  and  building  defences  by  as  large  a 
working  party  from  the  other  companies  of  the  command  as  possible,  as 
celerity  of  movement  is  absolutely  demanded  by  the  exigency  of  the  case. 

Report  to  this  office  the  state  of  affairs  in  your  command,  and  the 
progress  of  the  work  ordered,  as  frequently  as  possible. 

Leave  an  officer  and  fifteen  or  twenty  men  at  Fort  White. 
I  am,  sir,  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
J.  TILTON, 
Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V. 

By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  241.} 

FORT  STE 

April  6th,  1856. 


FORT  STEVENS,  YELM  PRAIRIE,    > 


His  Excellency,  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief : 

SIR  : — In  pursuance  of  orders  received  on  30th  ult.,  I  marched  that 
night  with  twenty  men,  under  the  guidance  of  Mr.  Shelton  and  Lieut. 
DeLacy,  the  Adjutant  Southern  battalion,  and  arrived  at  this  place  same 
night. 

On  31st,  I  proceeded  to  examine  the  country  around,  so  as  to  find 
the  direction  the  Indians  had  taken,  but  found  no  sign. 

April  1st. — Marched   for   Lakamas   prairie,   under  the  guidance  of 


304 

Mr.  Brail,  who  had  lost  some  horses  by  the  Indians  recently,  but  could 
find  no  sign.  Returned  to  this  place  by  way  of  the  Nesqually  river.  On 
the  third,  the  rest  of  my  company  having  joined  me,  started  with  twenty- 
seven  men,  intending  to  go  as  far  as  possible  towards  the  mountains. 
Took  four  days'  rations.  4th. — Marched  all  day  without  seeing  any  In 
dians.  Sent  horses  back  to  Lackamas  prairie,  and  proceeded  forward 
with  part  of  command.  Returned  in  the  evening  without  making  any 
discovery. 

5th. — Detached  Lt.  Pressley  with  fifteen  men  towards  the  head  of 
the  Nesqually  river,  with  orders  to  examine  the  river  minutely  on  his  way 
down  to  this  place,  whilst  I  returned  with  the  rest  of  the  company  to 
this  place. 

6th. — Scouts  having  returned,  moved  camp  to  Tamarie's  prairie, 
where  I  can  get  good  feed  for  the  animals.  No  fresh  Indian  sign  has 
been  found.  It  is  supposed  that  there  were  only  four  Indians  in  the 

party  that  stole  the  horses. 

******** 

I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Very  respectfully,  &c., 

BLUFORtX  MILLER, 

Capt.  Co.  I,  W.  T.  Y. 


[No.  242.] 

EXECUTI 

April  10th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  ) 


Major  G.  HAYS, 

Com'g.  Central  Battalion  : 

SIR  : — I  have  received  your  letter  of  this  date,  resigning  your  posi 
tion  as  Major  of  the  Central  battalion. 

Your  resignation  is  accepted,  to  take  effect  from  this  date. 

In  accepting  your  resignation,  I  desire  to  express  my  appreciation  of 
your  services  in  the  Indian  war.  Communications  from  the  office  of  the 
Adjutant  General  have  shown  you  that  the  authorities  have  not  been  un 
mindful  of  the  time  you  have  devoted  to  the  public  service,  nor  the  hard 
ships  you  have  encountered. 


S05 

Trusting  that  in  the  bosom  of  your  family  you  will  find  a  solace  from 
the  cares  of  public  employment. 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  243.] 

April  12th. — Communication  from  Adjutant  General  to  Captain 
Swindal,  on  whom  command  of  Central  battalion  had  devolved,  of  same 
import  as  that  of  the  6th  inst.,  to  Major  Hays. 


[No.  244.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY, 
Olympia,  April,  15,  1856. 

Capt.  C.  W.  SWINDAL, 

Commanding  Central  Battalion  : 

SIR  : — Lieut.  Col.  Shaw  has  been  elected  Lieut.  Col.  of  the  Central' 
and  Southern  battalion. 

You  will  push  forward,  establish  a  block  house  at  South  prairie,  and 
open  a  communication  with  the  force  now  pushing  up  the  Nesqually. 

On  communicating  with  Col.  Shaw,  you  will  receive  from  him  orders 
as  to  the  future  movements  of  the  battalion. 

It  is  to  be  remarked  here,  that  the  line  of  the  Nesqually  is  regarded 
as  an  important  one  to  be  occupied — that  it  is  to  be  established  by  block 
houses,  and  that  the  available  force  of  your  battalion  is  to  be  applied  to 
that  purpose. 

Truly  yours, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 
39 


306 
S  [No.  245.] 


CAMP  MONTGOMERY,  April  20th,  1856, 

Gov.  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Commander-in-Chief : 

SIR  : — I  moved  forward  on  the  15th  inst.,  for  South  prairie,  by  way  of 
FinnelPs  prairie,  cutting  a  wagon  road  some  six  miles  through  the  woods, 
and  making  a  good  road.  On  2d,  encamped  on  South  prairie,  and  two 
days  after,  completed  block  houser  which  I  named  Fort  McAllister,  and 
on  the  following  moming,  moved  towards  Camp  Montgomery.  The  Pi 
oneers  deserve  much  credit  for  their  perseverance. 

On  lTth  int.,  I  sent  out  a  scouting  party  up  the  north  branch  of  the 
North  fork  of  the  Puyallup,  commanded  by  Adjutant  Puith.  Some  four 
or  five  miles  up  the  river,  they  discovered  a  camp,  winch  the  Indians  no 
doubt  had  intended  for  their  place  of  retreat,  but  no  fresh  sign  was  seen, 
except  one  track  which  passed  through  South  prairie  towards  White 
river. 

Yery  respectfully, 

C.  W.  SWINDAL, 
Capt.  Com'dg.  Central  Battalion, 


[No.  246.] 

CAMP  WREN,  April  23d,  1856, 

Adjutant  General  JAMES  TILTON, 

W.  T.  Volunteers,  Olympia  : 

SIR  : — I  beg  leave  to  report,  that  in  obedience  to-  orders  received 
from  Lieut,  Col.  Shaw,  I  broke  up  my  camp  at  MeLoud's  and  marched 
on  the  llth  inst.  to  Tenook  creek,  and  on  next  day  arrived  at  MicheFs- 
prairie  at  noon.  I  left  my  horses  here  under  a  guard,  and  immediately 
proceeded  up  the  Michel's  creek,  a  branch  of  the  NisqualJy  river.  I  was 
accompanied  by  Col.  Shaw  and  Adjutant  De  Lacy, 

We  proceeded  up  the  river  for  about  eight  miles  and  camped.  Con- 
tinning  our  course  next  day,  we  came  across  fresb  Indian  sign  and  divided 
the  party,  Col.  Shaw  going  up  one  side  of  the  river  and  I  continuing  up 
the  other.  Col.  Shaw  found  an  Indian,  who,  however,  escaped  in  the 


307 

drift- wood,  and  soon  came  to  a  fishery.  Above  this,  a  short  distance,  we 
surprised  an  old  Indian  making  fish  weirs,  and  shortly  after  captured  an 
other  spearing  salmon.  We  induced  these  to  lead  us  to  their  ranch, 
where  they  represented  that  there  were  several  men  and  women,  but  on 
our  arrival  we  found  that  the  one  who  had  escaped  had  given  them  warn 
ing,  and  that  they  were  gone.  They  had  not  had  time  however  to  take 
anything,  as  we  found  all  their  clothing,  two  guns,  a  cache  containing 
blankents,  clothing,  &c.,  some  ammunition  and  other  articles.  I  sent  out 
scouts  in  every  direction  but  were  unable  to  catch  any  more  except  an  old 
squaw,  who  came  up  not  knowing  that  we  were  there.  We  destroyed  ev 
erything.  Next  morning  Col.  Shaw  returned  with  a  party  under  com 
mand  of  Lieut.  Bennington,  taking  one  of  the  captured  Indians  as  a  guide, 
and  got  six  Indian  horses  south  of  Lake  Owhap,  too  poor  to  be  of  any 
use. 

Thinking  that  the  Indians  had  escaped  over  to  the  Nisqually,  I  re 
turned  down  the  Michel  a  short  distrance,  crossed  it  and  proceeded  about 
three  miles  over  to  the  river,  which  I  ascended  seven  or  eight  miles  until 
stopped  by  the  tremendous  precipices.  I  found  no  signs  of  Indians  and 
no  place  for  them  to  stay.  Same  day  returned  to  Michel's  prairie  by  the 
mouth  of  Michel's  creek,  passing  by  the  place  where  we  had  killed  the 
Indians  on  the  previous  scout.  The  bodies  were  still  there  and  had  not 
been  disturbed. 

On  my  arrival  at  camp,  I  found  that  Capt.  Achillis'  company  had 
arrived  under  command  of  Lieut.  Powell.  I  started  again  on  the  11th 
iiist.,  on  another  scout,  taking  the  other  company  also  with  me.  My  men 
had  on  the  previous  expedition  seen  a  large  lake  to  the  north-east,  and  I 
thought  that  we  would  find  Indians  there.  We  proceeded  on  our  former 
trail  until  within  a  short  distance  of  the  fishery,  when  I  sent  Lieut.  Powell 
with  his  company  to  the  ranch  which  we  had  found  on  the  previous  expe 
dition,  and  struck  a  northern  course  myself  for  the  unknown  lake.  On  our 
route  we  came  across  an  old  Indian  camp,  where  we  found  a  cache  of  sad 
dles,  ropes  and  axes,  which  we  destroyed.  We  crossed  three  small  but 
rapid  streams  which  I  named  successively  the  South,  Middle,  and  North 
Forks  of  the  Owhap.  On  the  last  we  camped,  having  made  25  miles  that 
day.  We  were  now  on  a  distinct  well  marked  trail  leaking  to  the  lake, 
and  arrived  at  this  latter  about  noon.  We  coasted  along  it  for  about  5 
miles,  finding  no  Indians,  headed  it  and  came  on  the  opposite  side.  Here 
we  found  several  small  streams  flowing  from  the  lake  into  the  Puyallup  of 
which  this  is  probably  the  head.  We  struck  a  trail  going  to  this  river 
and  our  captives  told  us  that  it  was  not  very  far  distant.  We  camped 
here. 

We  continued  our  returning  course  next  on  the  trail,  being  generally 


308 

in  a  south  and  east  direction.  *  *  *  *  Again  arrived  at  Michel's 
prairie.  *  *  *  *  Haying  no  provisions,  I  have  eome  to  this  place 
where  I  .will  await  orders. 

Very  respectfully,  &c., 

H.  J.  G.  MAXON, 
Capt.  Com'g.  Washington  Mounted  Refles, 


[No.  247.] 

JPORT  McALI 

April  29th,  1856. 


MCA.LISTER,  SOUTH  PRAIRIE,  ) 


Cfov.  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Cominander-in-Chief : 

SIR  : — Capt.  Swindal  left  here  this  evening  en  route  for  the  Nisqually 
river  with  forty-eight  men.  I  accompanied  him  as  far  as  the  main  North 
Pork  of  the  Puyallup  with  seven  of  my  men,  as  I  felt  certain  that  he 
would  have  a  fight  with  Leschi  on  his  first  day's  march,  but  we  passed 
around  his  camp.  *  * 

We  went  to  an  old  encampment,  where  we  found  a  trail  which  we 
thought  was  the  one  that  the  Indians  had  taken  when  they  left  it,  but 
proved  to  bo  a  false  trail  made  for  the  purpose  of  misleading  any  body  of 
men  that  might  discover  the  camp.  After  running  out  the  trail,  we  dis 
covered  an  opening  which  we  supposed  to  be  prairie,  but  which  proved  to 
be  the  North  Fork  of  the  Puyallop.  Capt.  Swindal  resolved  to  proceed 
forward  -and  ^returned  to  the  old  Indian  camp.  In  about  an  hour  I 
found  out  the  course  the  Indians  had  taken.  The  encampment  is  situated 
upon  the  edge  of  a  swamp.  There  were  four  houses  capable  of  holding 
about  thirty.  In  the  swamp  was  an  Island  with  five  large  houses  which 
could  hold  fifty  or  sixty  men.  We  likewise  found  old  beds  in  hollow  logs, 
and  there  were  probably  one  hundred  men  encamped  here,  and  I  think 
that  they  were  in  a  wretched  condition  as  they  had  been  obliged  to  kill 
their  horses  for  food.  We  followed  the  trail  of  the  Indians  as  far  as  was 
prudent  considering  our  small  number  and  then  returned  to  camp. 

•>#*?  «  .*  *'  *  *  .    * 

Yours  respectfully, 

A.  B.  RABBESON, 
Com'g.  Company  B,  W.  T.  V. 


309 

[Ke.  248..] 

FORT  McALisTER,  May  2d,  1856. 

JAMES    TjLTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V.: 

gIR  : — With  four  day's  provisions,  I  started  with  part  of  my  com 
mand,  consisting  of  Capt.  White  of  the  Pioneer  company  with  20  men  ; 
Lieut.  Temple  of  company  B,  with  14  men  ;  Lieut.  Cole  with  7  men,  and 
4  men  of  the  company  scouts,  upon  the  march  you  ordered  towards  the 
Nisqually.  During  this  march,  haying  discovered  a  fresh  trail  of  Indians, 
I  went  before  the  command  and  upon  raising  a  ridge  discovered  an  Indian 
house  within  thirty  yards.  I  signalled  to  the  command  to  surround  it,  but 
before  it  could  be  done,  an  Indian  ran  to  the  door.  I  levelled  my  rifle  to 
shoot  him  but  he  dodged  back,  and  all  of  the  Indians  ran  out  of  the  back 
door.  I  caught  sight  of  a  young  Indian  whom  I  shot. 

The  command  then  charged  and  killed  four  Indians  ;  one  of  the  killed 
we  recognized  as  ''Sam,"  of  White  river. 

We  searched  the  camp  and  burnt  everything.  A  small  quantity  of 
provisions  were  found — some  potatoes,  &c. 

The  papers  of  the  Duwamish  Mill  Co.  were  found  here  and  I  forward 
them  to  you. 

This  camp  contained  about  :25  or  30  Indians.  We  reached  Fort. 
McAllister  yesterday  after  a  fatiguing  march  of  35  miles  through  the 
moutains. 

Lieut.  McKibbon  of  Company  H,  9th  Infantry,  has  just  arrived  here. 
He  is  going  with  us  to-morrow  with  22  men  of  his  company. 
Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

C.  W.  SWINDALL, 
Coin's.  Central  Battalion  W.  T.  Y. 


[NO. 


FFICE 

OLYMPIA,  May  27th,  1856. 


OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.   T.  Y.,  } 

) 


Lieut.  E.  HUGER, 

Adft.  2d  Reg't.  W.  T.  Volunteers  : 

SIR  :  —  You  are  hereby  detailed  to  inspect  the  route  lately  traversed 
by  Major  Yan  Bokkelin  from  Council's  prairie  to  the  pass  of  the  Snoqual- 


310 

inie  and  report  upon  its  practicability  for  ox  teams  and  the  time  requisite 
to  cut  a  road  through  by  a  party  of  pioneers,  of  say  30  men. 

Upon  arrival  at  Major  Yan  Bokkelin's  camp,  confer  with  him  upon 
the  subject  and  inform  him  that  the  Commander-in-Chief  is  very  desirous 
that  the  Northern  Battalion  should  actively  employ  itself  in  cutting  out 
as  much  of  the  northern  portion  of  the  proposed  road  as  possible,  to  facil 
itate  the  movement  and  enable  the  post  at  Rangers'  prairie  to  be  supplied 
with  provisions,  &c.,  from  the  train  of  Col.  Shaw. 

The  details,  you  will  give  the  necessary  orders  about,  and  inform 
Major  Van  Bokkelin  of  the  plan  at  this  office  relative  to  the  movement. 

Bear  in  mind  that  the  arrangements  for  the  march  via  the  Snoqual- 
mie  depend  upon  the  possibility  of  the  road  being  made  practicable  to  ox 
teams,  in  say  twelve  days. 

Return  to  this  place  within  six  days  to  report. 
I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

JAMES  TILTON, 
Adjvant  General  W.  T.  V. 
By  order  of  the  Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 

NOTE. — Lieut.  Huger  being  taken  sick,  the  above  orders  were  execu 
ted  by  ,Capt.  De  Lacy. 


[No.  250.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  1 

L,  July  17th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,  ) 


Capt.  SWINDAL, 

Commanding  Central  Battalion : 

SIR  : — You  are  directed  to  confer  with  Lieut.  Col.  Casey,  and  turn 
.over  Fort  Hicks  to  him  as  soon  as  he  will  receive  it. 

On  his  taking  possession,  the  Steilacoom  company  under  Lieut.  Cole 
will  be  immediately  marched  to  Steilacoom  and  be  mustered  out  of  service 
,by  you. 

The  Quartermaster  and  Commissary  General  will  make  the  necessary 
;arrangements  for  the  removal  and  safe  keeping  of  the  public  property  at 
Fort  Hicks. 

You  will  immediately  send  orders  to  the  detachment  of  the  Seattle 


311 

* 

company  under  Lieut.  Neely  to  move  immediately  to  Seattle,,  there  to  be- 
mustered  out  of  service  next  week  by  Lieut.  Col.  Fitzhugh. 

The  detachments  of  your  cnmpany  at  Skookum  Bay  you  will  also- 
cause  to  be  mustered  out  of  service. 

The  detachment  of  men  at  the  Nisqually  Ferry  block-house  will  be 
mustered  out  of  service  by  Quartermaster  and  Commissary  General  Miller, 
The  companies  at  the  Cowlite  and  in  Clarke  county  will  be  mustered 
out  this  week. 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Governor  and  Commander-in-ChieL 


[  No.  251.  J 

PORT  TOWNSEND,  W.  T.,  Nov.,  5th,  1855. 

Adj't  General  JAMES  TILTON, 

Washington  Territory  Volunteers,  Olympia  : 

SIR — I  take  this  opportunity  of  informing  you  that  on  last  Satur 
day,  a  company  of  volunteers  was  organized  at  my  place  of  about  fifty 
men,  which  is  increasing  daily,,  and  in  a  few  days  the  compan'ys  comple 
ment  will  be  full.  Imiaediately  on  the  orgaaization  of  the  company,  I 
despatched  1st  Lieutenant  S.  D.  Howe  with  a  detachment  ©f  men  to  visit 
the  camps  of  the  Scadget  Indians  now  situatad  on  the  rivers  immedi 
ately  north  of  the  Snohornisk  river,  and  invite  them  all  ia  to  the  settle 
ments — to  separate  them  as  far  as  possible  from  the  influence  of  the 
tribes  of  Indians  of  known  hostilities.  I  am  now  fitting  out  an  expedi 
tion  of  thirty  men  to  go  on  the  American  schooner  A.  Y.  Trask,  and 
blockade  the  Snohomish  river.  This  expedition  goes  under  command  of 
2d  Lieut.  James  Kames.  I  have  sent  the  schooner  R.  B.  Pother  to  San 
Juan  Island,  for  two  pieces  of  ordnance.  She  is  expected  now  hourly, 
As  soon  as  she  returns  the  expedition  will  sail  for  the  river.  I  have  i&- 
structed  Lt.  Kames  to  proceed  up  the  river  to  above  all  the  sloughs,  and 
select  a  position  where  the  stream  is  narrow  and  the  banks  clear  of  tim- 


312 

ber,  and  then  proceed  to  throw  a  boom  of  logs  across  the  river,  anchor 
his  schooner  below  the  same,  and  place  a  guard  on  each  bank  of  the  river 
to  prevent  any  canoe  from  passing;  if  the  blockade  is  attempted  to  be 
forced  he  is  instructed  to  resist  the  same. 

I  think,  with  this  river  blockaded,  it  adds  greatly  to  the  security  of 
all  the  settlement  on  the  lower  part  of  the  Sound.  In  fact,  with  the 
river  open,  with  a  large  trail  from  the  Clickatat  country  to  the  river  that 
can  be  traversed  at  all  seasons  of  the  year,  the  whole  lower  portion  of 
the  Sound  is  at  the  mercy  of  the  enemy.  A  party  of  Indians  can  reach 
all  the  settlements  below,  with  that  river  open,  in  48  hours  from  the  Ya- 
kima  river,  with  it  closed,  they  cannot  be  reached  at  all.  I  think  the 
course  I  have  pursued  will  meet  with  your  approbation  ;  the  exigency  of 
the  case  seemed  to  me  to  demand  it. 

The  people  of  this  place  are  very  much  alarmed.  All  the  families 
are  moving  in,  and  building  a  block  house.  The  people  on  Whidby's  Is 
land  do  not  appear  so  much  alarmed  —  the  blockade  of  the  Snohomish 
river,  has  added  greatly  to  the  feeling  of  security. 

I  hope  and  trust  to  be  up  to  Olympia  before  this  reaches  you. 
****** 

The  expedition  I  think  will  have  the  river  blockaded  by  to-morrow 

night. 

*****  * 

,,.  I         »  4  \Hfifc      ,  W  F  ^ 

*  *  *  *  *  * 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  N.  EBEY. 

*t'h't  -JcoJu  1o  ?mk  7m   Ii8  boxiu/c-vv  ROW  s-noJmifo  7  lo  '/:?ri 


•  _  _ 


[No.  252.] 

OLYMPIA,  Nov.  9th,  1855. 

JAMES  TILTON,  ESQ., 

Adjutant  General  Washington  Territory  : 
SIR  : — -I  have  the  honor  to  report  to  you  the  organization  of  a  com- 


pany  of  volunteers  at  Whidby's  Island,  on  the  third  inst.,  called  the  Nor 
thern  Hangers. 

Immediately  upon  the  organization  of  the  company,  I  dispatched  Lt. 
Howe,  with  a  portion  of  the  command,  to  the  rivers  on  the  east  side  of 
Whidby's  Island,  to  meet  the  main  encampment  of  the  Scadget  Indians, 
to  have  a  talk  with  them,  and  request  the  tribe  en  masse  to  move  into 
the  settlements.  This  course  oppeared  to  me  highly  necessary,  as  they 
have  at  times  past,  been  very  considerably  under  the  influence  ©f  Te-i-as, 
a  chief  of  the  Yakima  tribe  of  Indians,  and  who  has  visited  them  in  the 
character  of  a  priest,  and  at  this  time,  a  Spoqualmie  chief  is  visiting  them, 
and  it  is  well  known  that  different  members  of  this  tribe  are  dissatisfied 
with  the  whites,  and  but  little  persuasion  would  be  needed  to  induce  them 
to  disregard  their  solemn  treaty  obligations,  and  join  in  alliance  with  the 
fiostile  bands  of  Indians  within  reach  of  them.  These  fears  are  greatly 
enhanced,  when  the  Indians  know  thus  far  that  the  whites  who  have  gone 
out  to  chastise  the  hostile  Indians  have  been  compelled  to  retreat,  and 
that  numerous  murders  have  been  committed  within  short  distances  of 
points  that  are  the  best  prepared  for  defence.  I  think  it  a  matter  of  the 
first  importance  to  separate  those  Indians  who  show  no  disposition  for 
warfare  from  those  of  known  hostilities. 

*T*  *f^          .  .    "  .  ^P  •  *JC  5jC  5fi 

I  have  now  despatched  Lieut.  James  Keymes  with  thirty  men  on 

board  of  the  schooner  A.  Y.  Trask  to  blockade  the  Snohomish  river. 

****** 

*  It  is  believed  that  there  is  no  road  or  pass  in  the 

Cascade   mountains  north  of  the   Snoqualmie  until  you  get  to  Frazier's 

1*1  VPT* 

With  this  river  (the  Snohomish)  open,  it  brings  the  main  band  of 
Yakima  Indians  within  48  hours  of  Port  Ludlow,  Port  Gamble,  Port 
Townsend,  Discovery  and  Whidby's  Islands,  where  an  immense  amount  of 
capital  could  be  destroyed,  and  many  lives  lost,  before  the  enemy  could  be 
repulsed. 

*          *          *          *          *        B«n 

I  am,  sir, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  N.  EBEY, 


40 


[No.  253.] 

OFFIC: 

OLYMPIA,  Nov.  10th,  1855. 


OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V.,  ) 


Oapt.  I.  N.  EBEY, 

Comd'g  Co.  I,  IstRegt.  W.  T.  V.: 

SIR  : — Your  company,  I,  being  accepted  into  the  service  of  the  Uni 
ted  States,  you  will  return  to  your  command  and  cause  the  military  oathr 
a  copy  of  which  is  herewith  transmitted,  to  be  administered  to  your  offi 
cers,  non-commissioned  officers  and  privates.  Any  one  declining  to  sa 
swear  will  not  be  accepted  into  service. 

****** 

You  will  maintain  a  guard  at  the  boom  on  the  Snohomish  river,  in 
structing  your  guard  to  avoid  all  collision  with  the  tribes,  or  any  members 
of  the  tribes,  who  may  not  exhibit  unmistakeable  evidence  of  hostility, 
or  be  found  in,  or  strongly  suspected  of  communication  with  the  hostile 
Indians.  Your  command  will  earnestly  endeavor  to  maintain  the  friendly 
relations  hitherto  existing  between  the  Snoqualmies  and  other  tribes  on 
the  Sound,  and  our  people.  If  this  is  done,  your  services  will  be  most 
valuable,  and  more  highly  appreciated  than  any  victory  over  those  tribes, 
should  they  unhappily  join  the  hostile  Indians. 

****** 

*  *  It  is  made  your  especial  duty  to  guard  against  and 

prevent  all  persons  not  on  military  duty,  or  agents  of  the  Indian  depart 
ment,  from  undertaking  any  expeditions  against  the  Indians.  Private 
war  must  not  be  tolerated. 

The  general  arrangements  in  regard  to  the  collection  of  friendly  In 
dians  and  restricting  them  to  particular  points,  will  be  strictly  confined  to 
the  Indian  department,  whose  agents  this  is  the  special  duty  of,  and  who 
will  be  instructed,  in  case  of  necessity,  to  make  requisition  upon  yourself 
for  any  military  force  they  may  require  in  your  vicinity. 

****** 

Yours,  respectfully, 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V. 


315 

[N©.  254.] 


SNOHOMISH  RIVER, 
Nov.  12,  1855. 


JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  Y.: 

SIR  :  —  The  steamer  made  Point  Elliot  this  day  about  5  P.  Mv  where 
I  found  the  schooner  A.  Y.  Trask,  with  forty-five  of  my  eomuiand  on 
board.  *  * 

Pat  Kaniin  is  still  with  us,  and  designs  ascending  the  river  by  him 
self  to-morrow,  and  seeing  his  people,  returning  by  the  time  Dr.  Hill  ar 
rives  here,  so  as  to  accompany  him  up  as  the  special  agent  of  the  Indi- 

«  r\  a  *fc 

I  will  send  a  dispatch  to-morrow  for  Dr.  Hill. 
When  Pat  Kanim  saw  the  number  of  men  on  board  the  schooner, 
he  was  much  alarmed,  and  endeavored  to  dissuade  me  from  going  up  the 

river. 

******** 

I  have  this  evening  had  a  long  talk  with  Pat  Kanim,  in  which  I 
have  allayed  his  -fears.  I  am  also  indebted  for  the  same  to  Capt.  Fay's 
influence. 

I  shall  be  at  my  position  early  in  the  morning.  * 


Every  effort  on   my  part,  shall  be  directed    towards   maintaining 
friendly  relations  with  the  Indians  on  the  river. 

Yery  respectfully,  >?  no 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  K  EBEY, 

Capt.  Co.  I,  W.  T.  Y. 


[No.  255.] 

FORT  EBE 

Nov.  28,  1855. 


FORT  EBEY,  SNOHOMISH  RIVER,  ) 


JAUES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  Y.: 
SIR  : — I  send  this  dispatch  by  Lieut.   Howe,  who  takes  with  him 


316 


Pat  Kanim  and  Quesam,  the  two  head  chiefs  of  the  Snoqualniie  aiid 
Shawamish  tribes.  Until  to-day  the  chances  were  about  even  whether 
Quesarn  and  most  of  the  young  men  of  the  tribes  were  disposed  for  peace 
or  war. 

Yesterday,  Pat's  brother,  John,  went  up  the  river.  I  told  him  to 
tell  Quesam  and  his  people  if  they  were  not  down  the  river  in  three  days, 
I  should  go  up  the  river  and  see  him.  To-day  a  party  of  about  275 
came  down  the  river,  including  Quesam,  and  all  the  others  that  were  re 
ported  as  being  disaffected.  They  report  to  me  that  all  are  now  down 
the  river,  except  three  men  and  their  families.  One  of  the  great  objects 
of  our  station  here  is  accomplished,  without  which,  I  fear  that  one-half 
of  the  Snoqualmie  tribe  would  have  joined  the  war  party. 


My  company  is  now  over  seventy  strong.  Thirty  men  are  sufficient 
to  guard  this  river.  I  think  that  it  would  be  advisable  to  leave  that 
number  at  the  fort,  and  with  the  remainder,  ascend  the  Snoqualmie  in 
boats  to  a  point  some  miles  below  the  falls,  taking  Pat  Kanim  and  a  few 
other  Indians  as  guides.  At  that  point,  the  Snoqualmies  have  fourteen 
head  of  horses,  which  I  will  procure  to  transport  my  baggage,  and  then 
take  up  the  line  of  march  for  Seattle  or  Steilacooin.  I  will  thus  pene 
trate  the  heart  of  the  Indian  country.  I  have  no  fears  but  we  shall  get 
through. 


;t 

I  understand  the  Indians  at  New  Dunginess  were  manifesting  a 
slight  disposition  to  hostility,  and  that  the  houses  of  my  boys  from  Port 
Discovery  had  been  broken  into  and  plundered  since  they  left,  and  I  im 
mediately  despatched  Lieut.  Newton  with  16  men,  believing  that  their 

presence  would  be  sufficient  to  change  their  disposition  for  the  better. 

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  * 

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  * 

I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  N.  EBEY, 

Capt.  Northern  Rangers, 


317 

[No.  256.] 

OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V.,  ) 
OLYMPIA,  Dec.  4th,  1855.         j 

CAPT.  EBEY, 

Com'g  Co.  I.  1st.  Reg't  W.  T.  V.: 

SIR  :  —  Your  letter  of  Nov.  28th,  is  received.  In  reply,  I  am  in 
structed  by  the  Acting-Governor  to  state: 

The  condition  of  affairs  as  shown  by  late  developements  in  the  Green 
river  country,  and  the  uncertain  tenure  by  which  the  savages  of  the 
Sound  are  held,  renders  it  uuadvisable  to  authorize  the  proposed  expedi 
tion  up  the  Snoqualmie  river,  and  thence  to  Seattle  or  Steilacoom. 

You  will,  therefore,  continue  to  act  under  your  former  orders,  main 
taining  your  head  quarters  at  Port  Townsend,  and  keeping  up  a  guard  of 
say  25  or  30  men,  at  Fort  Ebey.  The  difficulties  with  the  Indians  re 
ported  by  yourself  at  Port  Discovery  and  New  Dunginess,  indicate  the 
necessity  for  your  keeping  your  company  at  Port  Townsend  or  in  that 
vicinity,  exercising  a  surveillance  upon  the  northern  Indians,  and  prevent 

ing  them  from  coming  up  the  Sound. 

*  *  *  *  *  * 

C    •    v     ri'*  '  "V/ 

Yours,  most  respectfully, 
(Signed,)  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjt.  Gen.  W.  T.  Y, 


•il 


[No.  257.] 

OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  Y., ) 
Olympia,  Dec.  5th,  1855.          ) 

CAPT.  EBEY, 

Com'g  Co.  I,  W.  T.  Y.: 

SIR:— 

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  * 

You  are  hereby  directed  to  detail  an  officer  and  20  men  of  those  of 

your  command,  who  reside  nearest   Crescent  harbor,  to  duty  at  the  block 

house  at  that  point. 


318 


Endeavor  to  prevent  all  collisions  between  the  detachments  of  your 
company  stationed  at  the  block  houses,  and  the  friendly  Indians  upon  the 

reservations  or  elsewhere. 

*  *  *  *  *  *  • 

Very  respectfully,  (.;•" 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed,)  JAMES  TILTOJST, 

Adj't.  Gen.  W.  T.  Volunteers. 
By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commauder-in-Chief 


[No.  258.] 

On 

^Olympia,  Dec.  llth,  1855. 


OFFICE  ADJ'T  GENERAL,  W.  T.  "V.,    ) 


Capt.  A.  A.  PLUMMEB, 

Commanding  Port  Townsend  Guards : 

SIR  : — Your  company  is  accepted  into  service,  and  herewith  you  will 
receive  commissions  for  youraelf  and  officers. 

*  Supply  your  command  with  provisions  when  an  expe 
dition  is  made,  and  only  such  men  as  are  absolutely  on  duty  will  be  sup 
plied  with  rations. 

*  •***/•          *  *         i  *  ^K  'K 

J  ,.  /    .1   .ft   , ,.T /•'.:•.  il  '(''*  rj  '£'/:. 

*  ***** 

The  delicate  duty  of  observing  vigilantly  all  causes  which  may  lead 
to  collision  between  our  people  and  the  friendly  Indians,  is  entrusted  to 
you,  and  you  are  especially  enjoined  to  require  of  your  command  great 
prudence  and  circumspection  in  this  matter. 

Respectfully, 

JAMES  TILTON, 
Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V. 

By  order  of  the  Acting-Governor  and  Commander-m-Chief. 
'  ': 


319 

[No.  259.] 

EXECUTIVE  O 

OLYMPIA,  Feb.  1st,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFIJCE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  I 


Capt.  I.  N.  EBEY, 

Wash.  Ter.  Volunteers,  Port  Townsend  : 

SIR  :— I  am  determined  to  receive  in  service  no  volunteers,  except 
such  as  enlist  for  six  months,  and  for  the  general  defence  of  the  Terri 
tory.  t 

Accordingly,  your  company  will  be  disbanded,  and  you  are  urged  to 
raise  a  company  to  be  enrolled  at  Port  Townsend,  subject  to  the  orders 
of  the  Executive. 

The  necessary  orders  for  their  disposition  will  be  given  in  season. 
J>ut  in  the  present  emergency,  it  is  indispensable  that  as  large  a  force  as 
possible  should  be  thrown  into  the  country  now  occupied  by  the  hostiles. 
Truly  and  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Governor  and  Comrnander-in-Chie£ 


[No.  260.] 

EXECUTIVE  O 

OLYMPIA,  Feb.  2d,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  > 

j 


Capt..  ISAAC  N.  EBEY,. 

W.  T.  Volunteers: 

SIR  :  —  You  are  requested  to  take  in  hand  the  raising  of  volunteers- 
from  the  counties  of  Whatcom,  Island,  Jefferson  and  Clallam,  to  urge  it 
forward  with  all  possible  dispatch,  and  to  consolidate  the  whole  force,  if 
in  two  or  more  companies,  by  calling  an  election  of  Major,  and  issuing 
the  necessary  certificates. 

The  Major  thus  elected  will  at  once  enter  upon?  Ms  duties,  awaiting 
his  commission  from  the  Executive. 

The  instructions  to  the  Major  are  herewith  enclosed. 
Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commauder-in-Chief, 


320 

[No/ 261.1 

,,>VY/      EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  W.  T.,  ) 
February  2d,  1856.          j 

To  the  MAJOR, 

Commanding  Lower  Sound  Battalion  : 

giR  » — You  will  make  the  following   disposition  of  the  force  under 
your  command: 

1.  Establish  small  posts  at  Bellingham   Bay,  Port  Townsend  and 
on  Whidby's  Island,  not  exceeding  15  men  each. 

2.  You  will  keep  the  same  number  afloat  in  case  no  steamer  of 
war  is  on  the  Sound. 

3.  Your  remaining  force  you  will  push  up  the  Snohomish,  occupy 
Fort  Ebey  with  15  men,  and  station  the  rest  at  the  Falls.     Here  a  block 
house  should  be  built. 

4.  If  a  body  of  100  men  can  be  collected  at  the  Falls  under  your 
command,  you  will  receive  orders  to  move  towards  Green  and  White  riv 
ers,  to  meet  columns  moving  towards  the  same  point  from  Steilacoorn  and 
Seattle. 

5.  Report  from  time  to  time  to  the  Adjutant   General's  office  at 
Olympia,  and  especially  report  immediately  the  number  of  troops  you  will 
be  able  to  concentrate  at  the  Falls  of  the  Snoqualmie. 

6.  Robinson  has  been  appointed  quartermaster  and  commissary  of 
your  command,  and  of  the  post  of  Port  Townsend,  and  has  been  instruc 
ted  promptly  to  comply  with  your  requisitions. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  262.] 

DEFENCE  OF  THE  LOWER  PART  OF  THE  SOUND. 

1.     Till  the  hostiles  are  met  and  defeated  in  their  own   country,  a 
steamer  should  be  on  move  continually,  and  posts  of  15  men  each  be  es- 


321 

tablished  at  Bellingham  Bay,  Port  Townsend  and  Whidby's  Island,  and 
a  post  of  thirty  men  at  the  Snohomish. 

2.  The  want  of  a  steam  vessel  to  be  supplied  by  a  sailing  vessel,  to 
cruise  between  Port  Townsend  and   Bellingham  Bay,  occasionally  run 
ning  down  the  Straits,  and  by  a  supply  vessel  from  Port  Townsend  to 
the  Snohomish. 

3.  In  case  of  attack,  the  settlers  enrolled  as  militia  should  be  called 
together  for  the  emergency. 

4.  If  two  companies  are  formed  in  the  lower  part  of  the  Sound, 
they  will  mostly  have  to  act  in  concert,  and  should  be  under  the  command 
of  a  Major,  to  be  elected  by  the  companies. 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  263.] 

DEFENCE  OF  BELLINGHAM  BAY. 

1.  If  the  force   stationed  there  should  not  be  competent,  the  en 
rolled  militia,  or  a  portion  thereof,  should  be  called  out. 

2.  With  a  suitable  block  house,  one  quarter  of  the  citizens  as  a 
daily  guard,  would  probably,  during  the  existing  Indian  difficulties,  be  suf 
ficient  to  maintain  it,  and  get  information  of  the  approach  of  hostile  In 
dians,  and  in  case  of  an  attack  being  threatened,  give  notice  to  the  set 
tlers. 

3.  In  case  of  attack,  all  the  citizens  should  assemble  to  repel  it. 

4.  Every  exertion  will  be  made  to  keep  a  steamer  on  the  waters  of 
the  Sound,  to  establish  a  weekly  mail  between  Bellingham  Bay,  and  oth 
er  points  on  the  Sound,  and  Olympia. 

5.  If  the  citizens  of  Bellingham  Bay  come  forward  in  the  defence 
of  the  Territory,  they  will,  in  connection  with  the  company  to  be  enrolled 
at  Port  Townsend,  be  organized  mainly  for  the  defence  of  the  lower  part 
of  the  Sound.     But  it  is  possible   their  services  may   be  required   else 
where,  and  they  should  enlist  unconditionally. 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 
41 


322 

[No.  264.J 

FORT  STEILACOOM,  Feb.  14th,  1856. 

.  ISAAC  N.  EBEY, 

Enrolling  Officer,  Lower  Sound  Battalion  : 

SIR  : — The  importance  of  immediately  establishing  the  posts  above 
the  falls  of  the  Snoqualmie,  is  so  vital  that  I  have  requested  Captain 
Gansevoort  to  despatch  the  Active  to  Port  Townsend  to  transport  all 
your  available  forces  with  the  necessary  supplies  to  the  mouth  of  the 
Snohomish. 

The  posts  indicated  in  the  general  instructions  will  intercept  the  re 
treat  of  the  enemy,  and  close  the  passes  over  the  Cascades.  They  are 
needed  to  aid  the  operations  of  Pat  Kanini. 

Then,  sir,  push  ahead  with  your  characteristic  energy;  we  shall  soon 
move  from  this  quarter. 

I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  265.] 

FORT  TILTON,  March  llth,  1856, 

JAMES  TILTON,  ESQ., 

Adj't  Gen.  W.  T.  V.,  Olympia : 

SIR  : — Your  despatch,  bearing  date  Feb.  21st.,  was  received  through 
the  hands  of  Lt.  Huger,  on  the  22d,  on  receipt  of  which,  I  immediately 
with  the  assistance  of  Messrs.  Collins  and  Money,  engaged  fifteen  canoes 
ta  transport  my  command  up  the  Snoqualmie  river.  I  was  somewhat 
bothered  in  the  operations,  as  Capt.  Pat  Kanim  threw  himself  back  on 
his  dignity,  and  insisted  upon  my  waiting  upon  his  pleasure,  but  he  at 
last  consented  to  proceed  with  part  of  my  command  up  the  Snoqualmie 
river  to  Pat's  house,  where  we  had  to  remain,  as  Pat  had  ordered  them 
to  take  us  no  further. 

After  two  days,  by  using  threats,  I  succeded  in  making  seven  of 


223 

them  take  me  up  to  the  Falls,  to  look  for  a  location  to  establish  a  fort  ac 
cording  to  instructions,  when  I  selected  the  present  site  which  I  have  ta 
ken  the  liberty  to  name  "Fort  Tilton."  It  is  situated  at  the  head  of  ca 
noe  navigation,  and  three  miles  below  the  Falls,  with  a  large  tract  of  bot 
tom  land  around  it  which  is  never  overflowed.  After  arriving  here,  I 
was  again  delayed  in  consequence  of  my  being  ahead  of  my  supplies,  and 
not  having  the  tools  to  work  with.  In  the  mean  time,  with  the  assist 
ance  of  Messrs.  Collins  &  Money,  I  layed  out  a  road  from  this  place  to 
the  prairie  above  the  Falls — the  said  road  being  six  or  seven  miles  in 
length. 

Two  days  since,  on  receipt  of  axes,  &c.,  I  immediately  put  my  com 
mand  to  work,  cutting  the  road  for  pack  animals  to  travel,  which  will  be 
finished  in  a  couple  of  days.  I  have  delayed  doing  any  thing  on  the 
block  house  at  this  place,  as  I  was  so  far  behind  in  my  movements  in  the 
expectation  of  the  Commander-in- Chief,  that  I  thought  it  advisable  to 
push  matters  through,  leaving  the  block  house  to  be  erected  by  the  de 
tachment  to  remain  at  this  place.  Yesterday,  by  the  hands  Serg't  Ebey, 
of  my  command,  I  received  all  the  back  instructions  from  Capt.  I.  N. 
Ebey,  together  with  map  of  this  country,  with  my  line  of  march  laid  out. 
I  also  received  by  the  express  running  to  this  station,  ammunition  and 
other  articles  forwarded  from  quartermaster's  department,  as  per  your  fa 
vor  bearing  date  February  26th,  1856,  which  is  acceptable.  By  the  ex 
press  I  learn  that  Kanim's  company  is  at  Fort  Ebey,  and  will  be  at  this 
station  to-morrow  to  report  for  duty. 

A  portion  of  Capt.  Howe's  company  is  also  at  Fort  Ebey — say  18, 
and  talk  of  remaining  there  for  some  fifteen  days:  for  what  purpose  I 
cannot  tell. 

I  have  sent  an  exprees  to  them,  ordering  them  to  this  station  to  re 
port  themselves  (I  acting  as  inspecting  officer)  without  delay.  So  I  am 
in  hopes  that  all  of  this  division  will  be  at  this  place  in  four  or  five  days 
from  date,  when  a  Major  will  be  elected,  and  the  line  of  march  taken  up. 
I  have  so  far  labored  under  great  difficulties  in  the  other  companies  of 
this  battalion  not  using  proper  exertions  in  pushing  business,  and  in  get 
ting  animals  to  pack  our  provisions.  I  am  in  hopes  of  obtaining  some 
from  Pat  Kanini,  and  I  have  also  sent  this  day  a  detachment  of  twenty 
men,  under  Lieut.  Mounts  with  five  Indians,  to  secure  five  horses  that 
are  roving  above  the  Falls,  and  the  Indians  tell  me  they  belong  to  the 
enemy.  My  Indian  auxiliaries  are  hard  to  get  along  with.  In  my  opin 
ion  all  are  rather  inclined  to  show  the  white  feather.  As  yet,  the  quar 
termaster  has  been  nnable  to  furnish  me  with  tents,  but  I  shall  start 
without  them  if  I  can  only  raise  pack  animals  enough  to  pack  ten  day's 
provisions  for  the  detachment.  The  balance  of  the  time  I  remain  at  thi* 


324 

place,  awaiting  the  arrival  of  the  other  companies,  I  shall  employ  in  erec 
ting  the  block-house  at  which  I  shall  commence  to-morrow. 

So  far  the  movements  of  this  division  have  been  very  expensive,  as  we 
had  to  deal  with  a  hard  crowd,  and  slow  in  their  movements.  But  I  as 
sure  you  in  all  my  operations  thus  far,  I  have  exerted  myself  to  push  mat 
ters,  and  at  the  same  time,  to  avoid  any  unnecessary  outlay  in  the  way  of 
expenses. 

This  evening  Lieut.  Mounts  and  party  returned,  bringing  in  four 
horses.  Report  no  Indians  on  the  upper  prairie.  Expecting  to  date  my 
next  letter  on  the  line  of  march, 

I  remain,  very  respectfully,  &c., 
(Signed,)  J.  J.  H.  YAN  BOKKELEN, 

Capt.  Co.  G,  2d  Regt.  W.  T.  V. 

I  have  to  report  Dr.  Bigelow  for  neglect  of  duty;  he  will  not  come 
to  this  place,  but  is  constantly  visiting  Penn's  Cove  and  other  places, 
(instead  of  attending  to  bis  business)  for  no  earthly  purpose. 

(Signed,)  J.  J.  H.  YAN  BOKKELEN, 

Capt.  Co.  G,  2d  Reg't.  W.  T.  V. 


[No.  266.] 

FORT  EBEY,  March  10th,  1856. 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  Y.: 

SIR  : — In  obedience  to  your  order  21st  February,  directing  me  to 
proceed  up  the  Snoqualmie  river  and  form  a  junction  with  Captain  Yan 
Bokkelen,  &c.,  I  have  endeavored  to  carry  out  with  the  utmost  despatch. 

By  the  steamer  "  Traveller,"  I  was  enabled  to  send  up  that  portion 
of  my  command  which  were  stationed  at  Port  Townsend,  on  the  first 
inst.,  under  command  of  orderly  sergeant,  J.  T.  Turner.  Immediately  on 
landing  said  detachment  at  Fort  Ebey  she  returned  to  Penn's  Cove.  On 
her  arrival  at  that  place  I  got  on  board  my  supplies  and  started  up  to 
Fort  Ebey,  where  I  arrived  on  the  8th  inst.,  with  the  balance  of  my 


325 

company  of  24  men  present,  as  shown  on  my  muster  and  descriptive  roll, 
which  you  will  please  find  enclosed. 

My  company  are  in  high  spirits,  and  anxious  to  enter  the  field.  I 
have  made  the  necessary  requisitions  upon  Quartermaster  Robinson  for 
supplies,  but  I  am  sorry  to  say  that  he  is  unable  to  meet  them  as  prompt 
ly  as  might  be  desirable.  I  have  thought  that  matters  might  be  expedi 
ted  by  remaining  at  this  place  until  my  supplies  might  reach  here,  which 
I  have  been  assured  by  the  Commissary  wouid  not  exceed  eight  days,  by 
which  time,  I  shall  be  enabled  to  procure  a  sufficient  number  of  canoes  to 
transport  my  men  and  supplies  to  the  Falls  without  delay.  I  am  aware 
that  a  more  prompt  movement  was  expected  in  this  quarter,  and  I  assure 
you  that  nothing  would  have  been  more  gratifying  to  myself  and  men, 
could  I  have  accelerated  my  movements  in  the  premises. 

But  considering  the  force  already  at  the  Falls,  and  my  scant  sup 
plies,  I  have  thought  that  the  movement  of  the  troops  from  the  Falls 
might  be  expedited  by  remaining  at  Fort  Ebey  until  my  supplies  arrive. 

You  will  perceive  by  my  muster  roll  that  seven  of  my  company  are 
absent  without  leave.  Permit  me  to  state  in  relation  thereto  that  many 
members  of  my  company  volunteered  their  services  expecting  that  the 
orders  issued  to  the  Major,  bearing  date  February  2d,  would  be  adhered 
to. 

Those  seven  are  among  the  number  who  persist  in  not  joining  the 
company  after  having  been  duly  notified  so  to  do.  I  have  used  no  com 
pulsory  means  as  yet,  all  of  them  have  families,  some  have  drawn  cloth 
ing,  and  some  have  not.  I  wish  to  be  advised  in  regard  to  the  matter. 

I  regret  exceedingly  that  I  could  not  be  furnished  with  rifles,  for  a 
majority  of  my  company  are  unaccustomed  to  muskets..  I  have  been 
kindly  furnished  with  500  ball  cartridges  (musket)  by  Capt.  Alden,  be 
sides  those  I  have  not  a  single  ball,  buckshot  or  cartridge  box,  nor  have 
I  any  moulds  to  make  balls  with.  I  hope  to  get  an  addition  of  arms, 
accoutrements  and  ammunition  before  I  leave  this  place. 

When  my  company  was  organized,  there  was  a  promise  made  to  the 
members  that,  when  the  company  became  concentrated,  and  upon  service 
together,  there  would  be  another  election  of  officers,  in  order  that  all 
might  have  a  voice  in  the  election,  that  there  might  be  no  complaint  here 
after.  I  have  to  report  no  changes,  except  that  of  2d  Lieut.  Sewell,  who 
tendered  his  resignation  to  me.  Thereupon,  I  ordered  an  election,  which 
resulted  in  the  election  of  Benj.  Welcher,  2d  Lieutenant,  whom  you  will 
commission.  Sewell's  resignation  accompanies  this  for  your  acceptance. 
I  have  no  news  of  importance  from  Capt.  Van  Bokkelen,  more  than  he 
has  moved  up  to  the  Falls. 

There  has  no  election  for  Major  taken  place  as  yet,  but  there  will  be 


326 

General  Orders  No.  4,  upon  the  concentration  of  the  two  companies.  I 
am  somewhat  at  a  loss  to  know  the  position  of  Col.  Ebey — if  he  is  a 
commissioned  officer  belonging  to  the  Governor's  staff.  I  should  like  to 
be  informed,  for  I  have  been  unable  to  find  out  from  him  his  position,  and 
how  far  his  authority  extended.  I  shall  be  ever  ready  to  respect  it  when 
I  comprehend  what  it  is.  He  claims  to  be  a  private  in  my  company,  and 
to  say  the  least  of  it,  he  cannot  consistently  be  a  private  and  an  officer  at 
the  same  time. 

Col.  M.  T.  Simmons  left  here  this  morning  for  the  Falls,  to  see  Pat 
Kanim.     Dr.  McCurdy  is  here  with  me  awaiting  instructions. 
I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,)  S.  D.  HOWE, 

Captain  Co.  I,  Northern  Battalion. 


[No.  267.] 

FORT  HAYS 

April  2d,  1856. 


FORT  HAYS,  CONNELL'S  PRAIRIE,    ) 

J 


r/,r,j        -.•jjii'-jrci  .  oj  ,        ••  vouu'f  'J"ii5  vn/i'jmfto  vm  lo  ^Ji^>^| 
His  Excellency  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-chief  W.  T.  V.,  Olympia  : 

SIR  :  —  In  conversation  with  Col.  Shaw,  he  has  expressed  himself  to 
me  that  he  thought  you  might  think  it  advisable  to  order  my  commaud 
back  to  the  Snoqualmie  country.  If  such  should  be  your  decision,  here 
after  I  would  beg  leave  to  make  the  following  suggestions  in  relation  to 
the  course  best  to  take  in  returning  : 

I  do  not  think  it  advisable,  without  it  is  intended  to  carry  out  your 
regular  plans  in  the  present  campaign,  to  return  by  way  of  Steilacoom, 
and  from  that  post,  by  water  to  the  Falls,  as  there  will  be  a  great  delay, 
and  we  will  be  placed  at  the  mercy  of  the  Indians  for  means  of  transpor 
tation  ;  and  again,  I  will  not  be  able  to  take  my  pack  animals  with  me, 
(of  which  I  have  nine)  or  to  take  cattle,  of  which  I  will  require  at  least 
two  yoke,  in  case  you  shall  see  fit  to  order  a  block  house  erected  on  Ran 
ger  prairie,  to  haul  the  timber  for  the  same. 


327 


Again,  if  we  return  by  the  route  we  came,  we  have  62  miles  to  trav 
el  to  the  prairie,  and  68  to  Fort  Tilton — the  greatest  part  of  the  road  is 
to  be  cut  so  pack  animals  can  pass.  We  can  go  through  in  14  days,  ma 
king  a  good  trail,  which  I  am  of  opinion  will  be  of  service  hereafter  for 
communicating  with  the  different  posts.  There  will  be  no  difficulty  in 
having  the  road  cut  by  Company  G,  if  they  are  supplied  with  saws  and 
axes,  and  are  allowed  extra,  the  same  as  the  Pioneer  company,  which 
company  I  understand,  is  all  owed  extra  for  such  work.  If  Col.  Shaw 
should  be  mistaken  as  to  the  future  movements  of  my  command,  they  are 
ready  to  move  in  any  direction  they  are  ordered. 
Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  J.  J.  H.  VAN  BOKKELEN, 

Com'g  Co.  B,  W.  T.  Volunteers. 


[No.  268.] 
DESCRIPTION  OF  ROUTE  TAKEN  BY  THE  NORTHERN  BATTALION,  IN  COMING 

FROM  FORT  TILTON  TO  FORT  HAYS. 

t  •  • 

Monday,  March  16 — Left  Fort  Tilton  at  12  o'clock,  camped  that 
night  on  Ranger's  prairie,  three  miles  above  Snoqualmie  Falls;  travelling 
in  all  six  miles. 

Tuesday,  17th — Crossed  spur  of  mountains  between  Snoqualmie  and 
Cedar  creek ;  came  into  a  small  prairie  on  Cedar  creek,  and  camped. 

Wednesday,  18th — Traveled  dawn  Cedar  creek  six  miles,  crossed, 
had  to  raise  a  steep  hill,  traveled  down  the  creek  three  miles  and  camped 
in  a  bottom  of  burnt  timber,  (near  by  a  prairie.) 

Thursday,  19th — Raining  hard;  remained  in  camp  all  day. 

Friday,  20th — Left  camp  for  Green  river;  struck  Green  river  after 
traveling  ten  miles;  left  the  river  and  struck  around  the  side  of  a  bald 
mountain;  (Green  river  making  a  great  bend  at  this  place,)  traveled  8 
miles  and  camped  on  a  small  lake. 

Saturday,  21st — -After  traveling  three  miles,  struck  a  branch  of 
Green  river  too  deep  to  cross;  turned  down  the  river,  and  traveled  three 


328 

miles;  came  upon  Indian  camp  where  Pat  Kauim  first  commenced  his 
fight;  traveled  one  mile  down  river,  and  came  to  Leschi's  winter  quar 
ters;  camped. 

Sunday,  22d — After  burning  the  Indian  houses,  crossed  the  river 
and  followed  the  river  bottom  down  till  we  struck  the  Muckleshoot  trail; 
traveled  to  Muckleshoot,  distance  five  miles;  from  there  traveled  to  Por 
ter's  prairie,  seven  miles;  camped,  (could  have  made  a  shorter  march,  but 
was  informed  that  river  was  too  high  to  cross  at  lower  ford.) 

Monday,  23d— Came  to  block  house  lower  end  of  prairie;  crossed 
White  river,  and  arrived  at  Connell's  prairie,  traveling  four  miles. 

I  am  under  the  impression  that  the  march  could  be  made  in  forty 
miles,  as  we  were  compelled  to  take  a  very  circuitous  route  to  avoid  high 
water,  as  it  rained  during  the  entire  march. 

Truly,  your  obedient  servant, 
( Signed,}  J.  J.  H.  YAN  BOKKELEN, 

Com'g  N.  B.  W.  T.  Yol. 


[No.  269.] 

EXECUTIV 

Olympia,  March  26th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 


Major  J.  J.  H.  YAN  BOKKELEN, 

Com'g  Northern  Battalion,  Fort  Hays: 

SIR  : — Your  dispatch  of  the  24th  inst.,  announcing  your  arrival  at 
Fort  Hays,  eight  days  from  the  Snoqualmie,  was  received  early  yesterday 
morning.  You  and  your  command  are  entitled  to  my  special  thanks  for 
the  successful  accomplishment  of  the  expedition,  for  though  you  were  not 
fortunate  in  meeting  any  Indians,  the  moral  effect  upon  the  ememy  must 
be  great. 

I  regret  to  be  informed  that  Pat  Kanim  has  not  come  up  to  the  mark. 
Your  course  in  retaining  John  Taylor  and  his  men  is  approved. 

You  will  be  supplied  with  provisions  from  the  depot  at  Fort  Hays. 
Gen.  Miller  will  write  you  by  this  express. 


329 

Other  matters  will  be  referred  to  in  a  communication  which  you  will 
receive  by  this  express  from  the  Adjutant  General's  office. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Very  respectfully,  &c., 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Gov.  and  Com. -in-Chief,  W.  T.  V. 


[  No.  270.  ] 

FORT  HA 

April  1st,  1856. 


FORT  HAYS,  CONNELL'S  PRAIRIE,  ) 


His  Excellency,  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief,  Olyinpia,  W.  T. : 

SIR  : — Since  my  last  communication,  my  command,  in  conjunction 
with  Major  Hay's  command,  took  a  tramp  through  the  surrounding  coun 
try  laying  at  the  head  waters  of  the  Puyallup  river.  We  went  through 
a  large  section  of  country  of  but  little  value  to  either  the  whites  or  Indi 
ans.  In  our  march  we  found  some  Indian  signs,  say  of  about  eight  or 
ten,  with  their  horses,  but  we  did  not  succeed  in  finding  a  camp.  It  is 
my  opinion  that  they  have  all  fell  back  to  the  base  of  the  mountains,  to 
cross  over  at  the  first  sign  of  our  approach,  as  they  are  disheartened 
from  the  reception  given  to  them  by  the  Central  Battalion  on  the  eleventh  ' 
of  last  month. 

It  may  be  their  intention  only  to  remove  their  families  out  of  the 
reach  of  danger,  and  again  visit  us  ;  if  so,  we  will  be  ready  for  them. 
I  believe  it  is  the  intention  of  Major  Hays  to  make  another  scout  to  the 
head  waters  of  White  river,  to  thoroughly  examine  that  country  for 
them,  and  I  am  in  hopes  we  will  meet  with  better  success.  By  the  ex 
press  of  yesterday,  I  received  my  commission  as  Major  of  Northern  bat 
talion.  I  have  appointed  Mr.  Humphrey  Hill  adjutant  to  the  Northern 
battalion,  for  whom  you  will  please  issue  commission. 

I  have  appointed  Mr.  Robert  C.  Hill,  of  Co.  I,  clerk  of  the  battal 
ion. 

I  have  this  day  despatched  (after  consulting  with  Col.  Shaw;  Lieut. 
42 


330 

Ebey  and  private  Lawrey  to  Port  Tovvnsend  for  the  purpose  of  recruiting, 
to  strengthen  my  battalion,  and  hope  it  will  meet  your  sanction. 
I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 

J.  j;  H.  VAN  BOKKELEN, 

Com'g.  N.  B.  W.  T.  V. 


[No.  271.1 

FORT  TILTON,  April  2fth,  1856. 

Hon.  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General,  Olympia,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — Since  my  last  of  the  30th  of  March,  I  have  kept  things  in 
motion  to  the  utmost  of  my  abilities.  I  had  a  hard  time  in  getting  up 
the  river  to  this  place.  The  river  was  very  high,  and  it  rained  inces 
santly  the  entire  passage,  and  for  ten  days  after  my  arrival  here.  I  set 
at  work  and  put  up  a  log  house  to  quarter  my  men — some  of  whom  were 
sick  •  in  faet,  I  have  a  very  few  able  for  duty ;  but  by  care  and  attention 
I  got  them,  or  some  of  them,  on  to  their  feet  again,  and  with  a  part  of 
my  command,  and  a  small  detachment  of  Ca.pt.  Howe's,  I  started  on  a 
scout  towards  the  Snoqualinie  pass,  but  found  no  signs  of  any  of  the  hos 
tile  tribes,  and  returned.  Having  received  no  orders,  andbeing  anxious  to 
be  stirring,  I  advised  Capt.  Howe  to  prepare  to  accompany  me  with  18 
men  from  his  command  (leaving  this  place  in  command  of  1st  Lieutenant 
Beam,  of  Co.  I,  and  10  men)  en  route  for  the  Muckleshoot,  to  join 
Major  Van  Bokkelen.  When  on  the  eve  of  departure,  and  every  thing 
packed  for  a  start,  Lieut.  Fitzhugh  and  Col.  Simmons  arrived,  and  ad 
vised  us  of  the  whereabouts  of  a  portion  of  the  enemy,  who  were  by  the 
last  accounts,  secreted  in  the  swamp  back  of  the  lake  of  which  Black 
river  is  the  outlet.  We  had  the  worst  kind  -of  weather — raining  all  the 
way  over.  We  camped  the  third  day  right  within  half  a  mile  of  where 
they  were  encamped  three  days  before;  but  Mr.  Yessler  had  been  up 
there  several  times,  and  every  time  they  moved  further  up  the  lake,  but 
notwithstanding  all  our  inconveniences,  if  we  had  a  guide,  or  even  a  good 
chart  of  the  country,  I  think  we  could  have  captured  and  killed  the  most 


331 

of  them  before  they  knew  who  were  after  them.  But  our  provisions  being 
totally  exhausted,  we  had  to  take  up  our  line  of  march  for  Seattle,  it 
raining  incessantly,  and  we  having  to  wade  for  half  the  way,  and  for  up 
wards  of  three  miles,  waist  deep  in  water,  and  through  almost  impenetra 
ble  thickets. 

Arrived  at  Capt.  Lander's  fort,  situated  four  miles  above  Seattle,  on 
the  Dewamish  river,  we  got  a  day's  rations,  and  moved  to  a  Mr.  Maple's 
barn  a  mile  .below,  and  camped  for  the  night.  We  there  learned  that 
Mr.  Yessler  had  been  commissioned  to  get  these  Indians  in,  and  conclu 
ded  to  wait  until  he  returned,  and  if  they  come  in  to  fit  out  for  the  Muck- 
leshoot  prairie.  Before  he  returned,  I  saw  Mr.  Hanna,  of  Port  Town- 
send,  and  he  informed  me  that  the  whole  battalion  were  ordered  to  this 
place.  We  immediately  got  in  readiness  and  returned,  arriving  here  last 
night,  making  the  march  from  the  mouth  of  Cedar  river  to  this  place  in 
two  days,  being  a  forced  march  of  one  day  on  account  of  the  scarcity  of 
rations. 

I  learn  from  Mr.  Charles  Thompson,  who  arrived  here  just  before 
us,  that  there  had  been  orders  sent  to  me,  but  that  Lieut.  Col.  Fitzhugh 
had  taken  them  to  Seattle,  expecting  to  meet  us  there,  but  was  delayed 
on  account  of  the  rainy  weather. 

I  shall  remain  here  in  readiness  for  any  orders  until  the  arrival  of 
Major  Yan  Bokkelen.  I  propose  to  send  a  scout  also  to-morrow  or  next 
day,  (as  soon  as  the  men  recruit  a  little)  out  on  the  Snoqualmie  trail  to 
meet  him  and  ascertain  if  there  are  any  fresh  signs,  &c. 

If  it  is  possible  to  procure  a  few  TJ.  S.  rifles  for  my  command,  I  feel 
confident  that  we  eould  turn  them  to  good  account,  for  these  county  arms 
are  much  inferior  to  a  common  shot  gun.  Three  or  four  rifles  would 
strengthen  us  very  much.  The  other  company  have  some. 

I  close,  hoping  that  what  I  have  done  will  meet  your  approbation. 
I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  R.  Y.  PEABODY, 

Capt.  Co.  H,  N.  B.  W.  T.  Y. 


322 

[No.  212.] 

FORT  TILTON,  April  27th,  1856. 

Adj't  General  JAMES  TILTON, 

Washington  Territory  Volunteers,  Olympia  : 

SIR  : — I  have  some  time  since  completed  a  very  substantial  block 
house  at  this  point,  and  upon  the  arrival  of  Capt.  Peabody  and  his  com 
mand  of  twenty-four  men  at  this  place,  we  immediately  made  arrange 
ments  for  a  march  in  the  direction  of  the  lakes  in  the  vicinity  of  Seattle. 
After  making  the  necessary  arrangements  preparatory  to  marching,  we 
accordingly  set  out  on  the  morning  of  the  14th  inst.,  with  my  command 
of  twenty  men,  and  Capt  Peabody,  twenty-four  men  rank  and  file,  for  the 
above  named  place,  having  left  a  detachment  of  ten  men  at  Fort  Tilton 
under  the  command  of  my  first  Lieut.  Beam.  After  a  three  days'  march 
through  an  incessant  rain,  (my  men  drenched  to  the  skin)  we  arrived  at 
the  mouth  of  Cedar  river,  and  there  discovered  some  Indian  signs,  such 
as  foot  prints  fresh  upon  the  sand.  We  scoured  the  country  thoroughly 
in  this  direction  and  found  but  one  Indian,  or  saw  but  one,  and  he  was 
far  in  the  distance,  and  consequently  escaped;  after  which,  we  resumed 
onr  march  into  Seattle. 

On  the  way  down,  I  fell  in  with  Capt.  Yessler,  from  whom  I  learned 
that  he  was  then  en  route  for  the  lakes  (having  previously  made  arrange 
ments  with  the  Indians  there  to  come  down)  he  accordingly  had  set 
out  to  bring  them  in.  After  remaining  at  Seattle  a  few  days  to  recruit 
my  men  and  supplies,  I  returned  again  by  the  same  route  that  we  came, 
and  arrived  at  Fort  Tilton  on  the  26th  inst.^  meeting  with  no  accident  on 
the  route,  except  one  of  my  Indians  wounded  through  the  fleshy  part  of 
the  arm  by  .the  accidental  discharge  of  a  musket. 

I  have  taken  the  liberty  to  have  in  my  company  six  northern  Indians, 
whom  I  have  found  to  be  very  serviceable  soldiers,  and  anxious  to  fight  if 
a  chance  is  given  them.  Had  we  been  favored  with  a  guide,  and  a  chart 
of  the  country,  something  doubtless  might  have  been  effected  in  that  vi 
cinity.  It  is  no  very  pleasant  reflection  to  tramp  through  this  country, 
knowing  not  where  you  are,  nor  where  you  may  find  supplies;  half  the 
time  not  knowing  whether  to  turn  to  the  right  or  left. 

I  have  not  had  the  pleasure  of  receiving  any  -cartridge  boxes  for  my 
command,  something  that  I  have  so  often  requested:  of  which  I  have 
stood  so  much  in  need,  until  I  arrived  at  Seattle,  and  there  made  arrange 
ments  with  the  quartermaster  to  have  them  made  and  furnished  me  at 
his  earliest  opportunity.  Linen  or  canvass  bags,  I  assure  you,  don't  prove 
water  proof  in  these  parts  in  rainy  weather. 

J  understand  that  Major  Tan  Bokkelen  is  moving  in  this  direction. 


333 

I  shall  remain  here  until  his  arrival.     I  have  not  had  the  pleasure  of  re 
ceiving  any  official  documents  from  any  one  since  I  arrived  at  this  place. 
I  shall  have  to  request  of  you  to  accept  of  my  resignation,  as  I  have  pri 
vate  business  to  attend  to  which  requires  my  presence. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Very  respectfully,  &c., 
(Signed,)  S.  D.  HOWE, 

Captain  Co.  I,  Northern  Battalion. 


[  No.  273.  ] 

OFFICF 

Olympia,  April  27th,  1856 


OFFICE  ADJUTANT   GENERAL,  W.  T.  V.,  ) 


Major  YAN  BOKKELEN, 

Com'g.  Northern  Battalion,  2d  Reg.  W.  T.  V.: 

SIR  : — As  soon  as  practicable,  after  the  receipt  of  these  orders,  you 
will  turn  over  the  charge  of  the  post  now  occupied  by  your  command  to 
Lieut.  Col.  Shaw,  and  start  for  Fort  Tilton  to  concentrate  your  battalion 
by  junction  with  the  companies  commanded  by  Captains  Howe  and  Pea- 
body. 

You  will  proceed  towards  the  Nachess  pass,  by  the  military  road,  to 
some  point  on  the  road  from  which  you  came,  off  towards  the  Snoqualmie 
falls,  and  thus  traverse  a  region  of  country  which  no  party  has  yet  passed. 
It  is  left  to  your  discretion,  upon  consultation  with  Col.  Shaw,  to  determ 
ine  the  route,  so  as  not  to  interfere  with  his  proposed  movements.  Bear 
in  mind  that  the  object  is  to  explore  country  not  yet  occupied  or  passed 
over  by  troops,  and  if  possible,  strike  the  enemy  in  any  fastnesses  they 
may  have  upon  the  western  bone  of  the  mountains,  or  upon  the  heads  of 
the  rivers  emptying  into  the  Sound. 

After  arriving  at  Fort  Tilton,  you  will  leave  a  sufficient  garrison 
there,  and  proceed  with  your  battalion  to  the  prairies  above  the  Falls — 
erect  there  a  block  house,  with  pickets  and  a  corral,  for  horses  which  may 
hereafter  be  required  there,  and  employ  your  command  in  scouting  the 
adjacent  country,  and  particularly  in  watching  the  Snoqualmie  pass. 


334 

. 
The  duty  of  guarding  the  settlements  upon  the  Sound  from  attacks  of 

the  hostiles  by  the  way  of  the  Snoqualmie  pass  is  entrusted  to  you.  Send 
scouting  parties  as  far  into  the  pass  as  possible,  and  make  reports  to  head 
quarters  relative  to  the  depth  and  distance  occupied  by  the  snows  upon 
it.  Also,  your  opinion  as  to  the  probable  time  at  which  any  considerable 
body  of  the  enemy  could  cross  into  the  Sound  region  by  way  of  the  pass. 

Upon  your  march  from  the  point  at  which  you  leave  the  military 
road  to  proceed  to  the  Snoqualmie  falls,  make  topographical  notes 
of  the  country,  showing  the  distances,  (estimated)  between  cross 
ings  of  streams,  descriptions  of  prairies  traversed,  or  which  you  may  dis 
cover  near  your  route — the  distances  to  the  mountains,  character  of  the 
ground  passed  over — whether  level,  rolling  or  mountainous,  and  all  other 
matters  which  will  assist  in  the  delineation  of  the  country  upon  a  military 
map,  which  is  being  made  at  the  office  of  the  Command er-in-Chief.  Cause 
a  sketch  of  the  country  to  be  prepared  and  send  it  here. 

With  full  confidence  in  your  energy,  intelligence  and  zeal  in  the  per 
formance  of  the  arduous  duty  before  you. 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

JAMES  TILTON, 
Adjutant  General  W.  T.  Y. 

By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


P.  S. — Col.  Fitzhugh,  lately  from  Fort  Tilton,  reports  four  months' 
provisions  there  for  sixty  men. 

First  Lieut.  Edward  Gibson,  aid,  has  been  despatched  to  Port  Town- 
send  to  take  supplies  of  all  kinds  to  meet  you  at  Fort  Tilton. 

Report  before  marching,  to  this  office,  and  inform  the  quartermaster 
of  any  articles  wanted  at  the  Fails,  which  you  may  think  could  not  be 
supplied  by  the  quartermaster  at  Port  Townsend. 

Capts.  Howe  and  Peabody  have  made  an  expedition  through  the 
country  from  Fort  Tilton  to  Seattle,  and  when  last  heard  from,  were  re 
turning  to  the  Falls. 


335 

[No. 


RANGER'S  PRAIRIE,  May  23d,  1856. 

0;  ••-vi'-^T.r.j;!*        ...  •  '.--  "j6l  f  IsfafrtoT' 

JAMES  TILTON,  ESQ., 
'* 

Adjutant  General  Washington  Territory  : 

SIR  :  —  I  arrived  on  this  prairie  (called  by  some  Snoqualmie  prairie) 
yesterday  at  3  o'clock  P.  M.,  being  the  8th  day  from  Fort  Hays.  Du 
ring  the  march  I  have  thoroughly  examined  the  country  at  the  base  of 
the  mountains,  and  my  route  the  greatest  part  of  the  way  was  over  a 
country  that  has  never  been  traveled  by  white  man. 

I  found  on  Green  river,  under  the  mountains,  various  camps  of  the 
enemy  that  had  been  abandoned  not  over  a  month  since.  These  trails  all 
Jed  down  to  the  settlements  except  that  of  two  or  three  Indians  and  one 
horse,  that  I  followed  to  the  edge  of  the  snow  in  the  Snoqualmie  pass, 
but  think  they  did  not  cross,  as  we  could  see  no  signs  in  the  snow,  (they 
may  have  crossed  before  the  last  fall  of  snow)  we  found  their  camp  fires 
all  along  their  route. 

I  am  under  the  impression  it  was  an  express  going  across  the  mount 
ains. 

Since  my  arrival  here  I  have  had  too  much  business  on  hand  to  get 
things  under  way  to  make  a  full  report  as  to  my  march,  but  will  do  it  as 
soon  as  I  have  leisure.  I  sent  Capt.  Smalley  over  the  summit  with  a  de 
tachment,  and  he  reports  to  me  that  there  is  but  two  and  a  half  to  three 
miles  of  snow  —  the  greatest  depth  four  feet. 

In  case  of  necessity,  Captain  Smalley  and  myself  are  satisfied  that  a 
train  could  pass  over  at  this  time  with  the  labor  of  twenty  men  with 
shovels  for  six  hours  (we  have  been  both  snowed  in  in  the  California 
mountains,  and  have  used  the  same  means  of  working  a  train  through.) 
Nothing  is  impossible,  where  there  is  a  will,  and  a  movement  can  be  made 
through  the  Snoqualmie  pass  with  no  difficulty  as  soon  as  it  can  be  got 
ready,  and  a  long  ways  ahead  of  the  regulars  through  the  Nachess  pass. 

I  have  applied  to  the  Commander-in-Chief  to  send  sixty-five  men  of 
this  battalion  over  the  mountains  with  the  main  body,  and  am  desirous 
of  having  them  mounted.  I  shall  commence  to-morrow  to  erect  a  com 
missary  building  and  hospital  on  Ranger's  prairie,  and  shall  send  an  ad 
vance  guard  on  the  Snoqualmie  trail,  to  erect  a  breast  work  at  the  pres 
ent  snow  line,  keeping  a  scout  on  the  summit. 

As  soon  as  the  snow  will  admit,  I  shall  advance  the  guard  to  the 
summit  prairie,  (if  not  otherwise  ordered,)  which  is  the  only  station  that 
the  pass  can  be  protected  with  a  small  party. 

I  send  this  with  an  express  across  land  by  the  route  I  traveled,  con- 


336 


sisting  of  three  men,  to  test  the  time  taken  to  travel  thejoute,}  and  in 
case  the  Commander-in-Chief  should  see  fit  to  order  the  movement  of  the 
volunteer  forces  across  this  pass,  they  would  act  as  guides  to  the  party. 
If  the  movement  should  be  made,  it  will  be  necessary  to  start  some 
twelve  men  with  axes  ahead,  to  improve  the  trail  so  that  party  could  pass 
through  with  despatch. 

The  express  is  not  of  the  best  informed  men,  but  they  can  give  you 
a  correct  account  of  this  route. 

Your  communications  bearing  date  of  the  17th  and   18th  inst.,  was 
received  to-day,  and  I  shall  act  in  accordance. 
Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

YAN  BOKKELEN, 

Maj.  N.  B.  W.  T.  Y. 


[No.  275.] 

FORT  TILTON,  May  24th,  1856. 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  Y.: 

SIR  : — In  my  despatch  by  land,  I  forgot  to  mention  that  it  will  be 
necessary  to  have  oxen  on  Ranger's  prairie  to  haul  rails  for  a  corral,  as 
the  timber  is  a  long  way  from  the  place  where  I  will  put  up  the  buildings, 
and  the  lumber  I  am  using  I  have  to  raft  down  stream. 
Truly  and  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,)  J.  J.  H.  YAN  BOKKELEN, 

Maj.  Com'g  N.  B.  W.  T.  Y. 


[No.  276.] 

HANGER'S  PRAIRIE,  1 

>•      } 


Gov.  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Commander-in-Chief,  W.  T.  Y.,  Olympia  : 
SIR  :— I  arrived  at  this  place  after  scouting  between  Fort  Hays  and 


337 

here.  I  visited  the  summit  on  the  Snoqualmie  pass,  and  found  but  four 
feet  of  snow,  which  does  not  extend  mere  than  two  and  a  half  or  three 
miles,  and  is  fast  sinking.  Capt.  Smalley  and  myself  are  under  the  impres 
sion  that  a  party  can  cross  with  the  assistance  of  the  labor  of  twelve 
men  for  six  hours  at  this  time,  and  by  the  time  the  expedition  can  be  go 
ready,  it  can  cross  without  any  labor. 

I  would  like,  if  in  accordance  with  your  arrangements  for  the  future, 
to  take  sixty  or  sixty-five  men  of  this  battalion  over  the  mountains  to  b< 
mounted,  if  the  animals  and  fixtures  can  be  procured. 

Since  my  arrival  here,  I  have  received  two  communications  from 
your  office,  and  shall  proceed  immediately  to  carry  out  the  instructions. 
You  may  rest  assured  that  I  will  leave  nothing  undone  that  will  tend  to 
make  the  movements  of  the  volunteer  forces  successful,  and  to  carry  out 
any  orders  I  may  receive  from  your  office. 

At  an  election  held  in  Company  I,  to  fill  the  vacancy  caused  by  the 
resignation  of  Captain  Howe,  on  the  21st.  inst.,  George  W.  Beam  was 
elected  Captain,  and  Thomas  Sinnot  was  elected  1st  Lieutenant.  You 
will  please  forward  commissions  to  the  above  officers. 

Through  some  oversight,  Benjamin  Welcher,  who  was  elected  2d 
Lieutenant  of  Company  I,  on  the  10th  of  March  last,  has  never  received 
his  commission.  You  will  please  forward  it  with  the  others. 

Truly,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  J.  J   H.  TAN  BOKKELEN, 

Com'g  N.  B.  W.  T.  Yol. 


[No.  217.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFF 

June  4th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  W.  T., ) 


Lieut.  Col.  E.  C.  FITZHUGH,  ....,, 

Aid-de-Camp,  Holmes  Harbor : 

Sm  : — I  have  conversed  with  the  messengers  of  Te-i-as,  and  Owhi, 
and  have  directed  them  to  return  to  Te-i-as  and  Owhi,  and  invite  them 
and  all  friendly  Indians  to  come,  with  their  women  and  children,  to  the 
43 


338 

-prairie  above  the  falls  of  the  Snoqualmie,  arid  submit  unconditionally  to 
the  justice  and  mercy  of  the  government. 

Absolute  and  unconditional  submission  is  required.  Those  guilty  of 
murders,  or  who  have  urged  on  the  war,  will  be  punished.  The  remain 
der  will  be  treated  with  mercy,  as  in  the  case  of  the  Indians  on  the 
Sound. 

On  the  arrival  of  these  Indians  at  the  prairie,  you  will,  in  connec 
tion  with  Col  Simmons,  examine  fully  into  their  connection  with  the  war, 
and  in  case  of  then*  deserving  punishment,  organize  a  military  commission, 
have  them  tried,  and  carry  into  effect  the  decision  of  the  court.  I  invest 
you  with  my  whole  authority  in  ordering  and  approving  the  proceedings 
of  the  commission. 

You  are  authorized,  however,  either  to  suspend  the  execution  of  the 
sentence,  or  defer  the  trial  of  the  criminals  for  the  period  which  reason 
and  policy  may  require. 

If  thus  deferring  the  trial  or  execution  of  the  sentence  would  favor 
more  criminals  being  got  in,  or  would  tend  to  bring  over  all  the  Indians 
who  have  opposed  the  war,  and  are  sincerely  desirous  of  peace,  or  would 
enable  Col.  Shaw  to  strike  a  blow  at  the  hostiles  by  falling  on  them  una 
wares,  or  if  any  other  advantage  could  result,  then  let  the  matter  be  de 
ferred. 

Should  it  be  deemed  advisable  by  yourself  and  Col.  Simmons  for  me 
to  visit  the  Indians  on  the  Snoqualmie,  send  for  me  and  I  will  go.  And 
you  will  exercise  your  own  judgment  as  to  sending  any  of  the  chiefs  or 
people  to  Olympia  to  see  me. 

I  shall  immediately  push  up  the  Snoqualmie  a  supply  of  provisions 
for  the  Indians. 

When  Lieut.  Col.  Shaw  starts  for  the  Snoqualmie  I  will  advise  you 
by  special  express. 

Having  had  a  full  personal  conference  with  Col.  Simmons,  I  write 
necessarily  briefly. 

I  say  to  both  of  you,  use  your  own  judgment  in  effecting  the  end 
desired,  and  you  will  be  right. 

You  will  make  known  to  Major  Yan  Bokkelen  the  duties  with  which 
you  are  charged,  and  you  will  make  with  him  the  necessary  arrangements 
to  insure  the  safety  of  the  Indians  on  their  way  to  the  place  of  rendez 
vous. 

Yours,  most  respectfully, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Qov.  and  Comnaander-in-ChieL 


339 

[No.  278.] 


HOLME'S  HARBOR,  W.  T., 
June  20th,  1856. 


Gov.  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Commander-in-Chief,  Port  Townsend : 

SIR  : — I  regret  to  inform  you  that  the  mission  you  were  pleased  to 
entrust  to  Col.  Simmons  and  myself  has  turned  out  a  perfect  failure. 
The  causes  of  the  failure  I  cannot  give  you  in  full,  but  will  tell  you  why 
we  think  we  were  not  partially  successful. 

Col.  Wright  of  the  "  regulars,  "  has  for  the  last  month  been  enter 
taining  the  Indians  over  the  other  side  of  the  mountains,  besides  feeding 
the  tyees,  making  them  presents,  &c.,  &c.,  after  having  sent  for  reinforce 
ments  to  different  points,  and  tickling  the  community  with  the  belief  that 
he  intended  Speedily  to  demolish  all  the  Indians  on  the  east  side.  He  is 
still  holding  a  talk  with  them,  with  what  expectation  I  cannot  tell.  The 
Indians  would  not  come  over  to  us,  as  they  hoped  to  get  better  terms  from 
him. 

Our  Indians  informed  us  that  Col.  Wright  told  all  of  them  that  he 
was  the  "  Big  Dog  "  in  this  part  of  the  world,  and  had  come  a  long  dis 
tance  to  treat  with  them,  and  if  they  would  only  stop  fighting,  that  all 
would  be  right. 

The  Indians  of  course,  are  willing  to  play  quits,  save  all  their  people 
and  stop  the  war.  If  they  succeed  in  doing  that,  as  soon  as  they  are 
well  prepared  to  carry  on  the  war  with  any  prospects  of  success,  the  gov 
ernment  will  have  the  same  expenses  and  trouble  over  again.  They  noti 
fied  us  that  as  soon  as  they  made  friends  of  the  soldiers,  they  would  come 
over  and  treat,  but  as  there  was  no  time  specified,  we  thought  there,  was 
no  use  of  our  remaining.  We  accordingly  left.  This  is  the  end  of  your 
attempt  to  treat  after  nearly  two  months'  time  being  consumed,  to  say 
nothing  of  some  five  or  six  hundred  dollars  it  has  cost  the  government. 

I  believe  that  you  are  entirely  correct  in  your  impression,  that  they 
only  wished  to  gain  time  and  information.  I  believe  that  Owhi  and  Te- 
i-as,  and  some  of  the  sub-chiefs  of  their  band  would  have  surrendered 
unconditionally  to  government,  but  for  the  inducements  held  out  to  them 
by  Col.  Wright,  that  they  could  treat  with  him  on  better  terms,  and  save 
all  their  people.  As  things  now  are,  they  will  have  to  be  well  thrashed 
before  they  will  treat. 

From  the  beginning  of  the  difficulty  to  the  present  time,  the  regu 
lars,  from  their  Commander-in-Chief  down,  have  stultified  themselves. 
They  have  done  no  fighting,  and  now  they  wish  to  patch  up  a  treaty,  so 
as  to  get  the  credit  for  putting  an  end  to  the  war. 


340 

I  must  refer  you  to  Col.  Simmons  for  all  particulars,  as  he  goes  di 
rect  to  Olympia. 

I  am,- very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  E.  C.  FITZHUGH, 

Aid-de-Camp. 


[No.  279.] 

EXECUTIVE  < 

OLYMPIA,  May  28,    1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  } 


Major  J.  J.  VAN  BOKKELIN, 

Commanding  Northern  Battalion : 

SIR  : — Your  express  reached  Olympia  yesterday  with  information  of 
your  arrival  at  the  Falls  of  the  Snoqualmie,  of  the  quantity  of  snow  in  the 
pass,  and  the  practicability  of  the  route.  From  the  information  given  by 
Mr.  Yincent,  there  would  seem  to  be  little  doubt  of  the  practicability  of 
pushing  a  wagon  train  from  Montgomery's  to  the  Rattlesnake  prairie,  and 
thence  over  the  pass  to  the  main  Yakima. 

It  will  require  some  five  or  six  days  to  get  the  wagon  and  pack  trains 
in  readiness.  Every  exertion  will  be  made  to  have  every  thing  in  readi 
ness  to  move  in  six  days. 

To  verify  the  information  given  as  to  the  practicability  of  getting 
through  a  wagon  train,  I  send  with  your  express,  Lieut.  Huger,  the  acting 
Adjutant  of  the  regiment. 

If  on  an  inspection  of  the  route,  and  after  conference  with  you,  he 
shall  be  of  opinion  that  a  wagon  train  can  be  pushed  from  Montgomery's 
to  the  Rattlesnake  prairie  say  in  six  or  seven  days,  and  thence  to  the 
main  Yakima  over  the  pass  in  three  or  four  days  more,  he  will  arrange 
with  you  the  putting  of  a  strong  working  party  to  open  the  road  simulta 
neously  from  Rattlesnake  prairie  to  Frog  Pond,  and  from  Rattlesnake 
prairie  to  the  pass. 

On  the  return  of  Lieut.  Huger  with  information  of  the  practicability 
of  the  route,  a  strong  working  party  will  be  moved  immediately  from  this 
quarter  to  meet  your  working  party  at  Frog  Pond. 


341 

My  information  derived  from  Mr.  Vincent  is  that  Frog  Pond  is  some 
four  miles  beyond  Green  river,  and  twenty-five  miles  this  side  of  Rattle 
snake  prairie. 

In  the  event  that  the  wagon  train  can  be  pushed  over  the  Snoqual- 
mie  pass  to  the  main  Yakima,  it  is  intended  to  establish  a  post  and  depot 
at  the  first  named  prairie,  and  to  garrison  it  with  a  detachment  from  your 
command. 

This  will  leave  available  to  strike  and  pursue  the  enemy  the  whole 
mounted  force,  and  they  will  have  a  depot  where  to  draw  supplies. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  "Washington  Territory. 


[No.  280.] 

SNOQUALMIE  PASS,  June  24th,  1856. 

Adj't  Gen.  JAMES  TILTON, 

W.  T.  V.,  Olympia  : 

SIR  : — In  accordance  with  my  last  communication,  the  parties  started 
for  this  place  by  the  different  trails.  I  went  with  Capt.  Beam  and  his 
company  by  the  foot  trail  from  Rangers'  prairie,  sending  the  pack  train 
with  Company  I  and  H  by  the  horse  trail  on  Cedar  creek.  After  trav 
eling  a  mile  through  the  bottom  I  came  into  a  prairie  of  fine  grass,  about 
two  and  one-half  miles  long  and  three-fourths  wide.  After  leaving  the 
prairie  I  went  through  the  timber  for  a  mile  and  struck  a  burnt  prairie 
with  rock  soil  about  three  miles  long,  after  leaving  which  I  commenced  a 
gradual  rise  to  the  summit  of  the  pass,  which  thirty-five  miles  from  Rang 
ers'  prairie  the  whole  trail  is  a  gradual  rise,  but  greatly  obstructed  with 
timber  and  would  require  considerable  labor  to  open.  After  raising  the 
summit  we  lost  the  old  Indian  trail,  and  I  took  a  road  with  a  gradual 
slope  to  the  south,  with  the  intention  of  striking  Cichelass  Lake,  which  I 
struck  after  traveling  fourteen  miles.  About  four  miles  before  I  struck 
the  lake  I  found  an  Indian  trail  which  I  followed  to  within  one  hundred 
yards  of  the  lake,  where  I  found  blazes  on  the  trees  to  the  lake  which  ap- 


.,,342 

peared  to  have  been  made  by  white  men  ;  commencing  from  the  lake  they 
must  have  gone  that  far  and  returned,  giving  it  up  as  a  bad  job.  I  should 
like  to  know  if  a  white  man  has  ever  been  through  before  we  went  through 
this  time,  for  we  could  find  no  signs  of  white  men  on  the  road.  The  trail 
at  this  place  run  into  the  lake,  and  the  Indians  in  using  this  trail  must 
either  cross  the  lake  in  canoes  or  travel  around  the  shores  of  the  lake  in 
the  dry  season.  From  this  place  we  took  the  western  side  of  the  lake  and 
forced  our  way  along  over  rocks  and  timber,  up  hill  and  down,  for  eight 
miles,  till  we  got  to  the  lower  end  of  the  lake,  when  we  struck  the  pack 
trail  where  we  camped. 

Towards  evening  Capt.  Smalley  came  down  from  the  summit  with  a 
detachment  for  the  purpose  of  meeting  my  party.  He  reports  that  the 
party  with  the  train  is  on  the  summit  hill,  and  had  thought  it  advisable 
to  stop  them  at  this  place  till  he  saw  me,  for  if  the  animals  were  brought 
down  to  the  river  they  would  not  be  enabled  to  return  to  Rangers'  prairie 
to  pack  out  again  before  we  would  consume  what  provisions  we  had  on 
hand.  This  was  the  fifth  day  from  camp. 

The  next  morning,  with  a  small  party,  I  started  down  the  river 
which  forms  the  Yakima,  to  examine  the  country.  I  went  some  five 
miles  and  found  the  country  to  continue  too  open  to  guard  with  my  small 
party,  so  I  returned,  sending  two  men  ahead  to  examine  the  trail  and  to 
look  for  signs,  as  I  was  desirous  to  return  to  camp  to  see  what  could  be 
done  towards  getting  the  party  ahead.  After  arriving  in  camp  I  found 
there  was  but  six  days  provisions  on  hand  and  not  over  eight  horses  that 
was  fit  to  pack,  as  the  others  had  tender  feet ;  so  I  ordered  them  to  fall 
back  to  the  foot  of  the  summit  hill  as  it  would  not  do  for  them  to  remain 
at  this  place  as  it  has  been  storming  for  the  last  week,  and  there  await 
till  I  could  learn  whether  the  Quartermaster  Department  would  answer 
my  requisition  for  horses  or  not,  for  if  the  horses  are  not  sent  me,  I  will 
be  compelled  to  fall  back  to  Rangers'  prairie,  where  I  will  be  within  reach 
of  provisions. 

In  relation  to  this  pass,  I  have  been  totally  deceived  in  representations 
of  it  made  to  me  ;  as  far  as  I  have  been  I  have  found  no  place  that  a 
party  can  effectually  guard  it.  At  times  I  am  of  the  opinion  that  by 
holding  Fort  Tilton,  Fort  Alder  and  Rattlesnake  prairie,  we  can  effect 
ually  guard  this  section  of  the  country  as  at  any  other -point.  I  shall  re 
main  at  this  place  until  I  hear  from  your  office. 

I  am,  sir,  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  J.  J.  H.  YAN  BOKKELIN, 

Maj.  Corn'g.  Northern  Battalion,  W.  T.  Y. 


[No.  281.] 

FORT  ALDER,  June  28th, 

JAMES  TILTON,  Esq., 

Adj.  General  W.  T.  V.r  Olympia  : 

SIR  : — I  arrived  at  this  place  on  the  evening  of  the  26th,  after  trav 
eling  through  rain  for  forty-five  miles  with  my  pack  on  my  back,  which 
business  of  making  pack  animals  of  ourselves  for  the  want  of  proper  ani 
mals,  (which  I  understand  the  other  battalions  have  been  supplied  with, 
both  to  ride  as  well  as  to  pack,  whilst  this  battalion  cannot  obtain  enough 
to  pack  twenty  days  rations  to  make  a  move  that  may  be  of  some  credit 
to  themselves  and  those  that  command  them, )  both  the  battalion  and  my 
self  are  sick  of. 

\  I  found  the  various  -communications  from  your  office  which  the  ex 
press  had  brought  through,  but  no  horses  from  the  Quartermaster's  De 
partment,  which  was  a  great  disappointment,  as  for  the  want  of  them,  I 
have  been  compelled  to  order  the  command  to  fall  back  from  Summit  to 
Rattlesnake  prairie,  where  I  shall  station  them  to  the  best  advantage  so 
that  I  can  supply  them  with  provisions. 

The  men  that  I  sent  down  towards  the  Yakima  valley  returned  the 
morning  I  left  camp  and  report  having  gone  down  the  river  twenty  miles, 
after  crossing  the  river  where  they  left  me.  After  traveling  three-fourths 
of  a  mile  they  found  the  trail  that  I  should  have  followed,  coming  into  the 
pack  trail.  After  travelling  sixteen  miles,  they  came  to  a  narrow  place 
about  three-fourths  of  a  mile  wide,  with  the  mountains  coming  together  on 
both  sides  ;  after  which,  the  country  opened  into  the  valley.  This  place 
they  report  to  me  as  a  good  location  for  a  fort,  to  defend  the  pass.  They 
went  four  miles  further  into  the  valley  when  they  came  upon  an  Indian 
encampment,  which  had  not  been  adandoned  over  24  hours.  From  the 
corral  they  must  have  had  considerable  stock.  They  had  their  fish  traps 
in  the  river. 

I  forgot  to  state  £hat  the  first  morning  after  the  train  camped  on  the 
Summit  prairie  the  guard  at  three  o'clock,  A.  M.,  discovered  three  Indians 
on  the  edge  of  the  timber  watching  camp.  The  alarm  was  given  and 
pursuit  given  without  success.  They  must  have  belonged  to  the  camp 
spoken  of,  and  was  on  the  look-out  for  us.  After  finding  a  location  to 
guard  the  pass  it  is  mortifying  and  discouraging  to  have  to  fall  back 
for  the  want  of  animals.  As  soon  as  the  party  returns  from  the  Summit, 
I  shall  erect  a  block-house  on  Rattlesnake  and  another  on  the  foot  trail 
on  the  prairie,  cutting  a  pack  trail  to  the  same. 

I  have  been  compelled  to  detail  a  portion  of  this  battalion  for  pioneer 
duty,  promising  them  that  they  shall  be  paid  at  the  same  rate  that  other 


344 

pioneers  are  paid.  You  will  please  inform  me  if  I  am  right? in  promising 
them  the  same.  It  is  nothing  more  than  just,  as  in  all  our  movements  we 
have  gone  through  an  entirely  wild  country,  and  have  been  compelled  to 
open  our  own  roads  and  build  roads,  and  not  have  it  done  for  us  as  other 
battalions  have  ;  but  things  may  all  turn  out  for  the  best  yet. 

The  Quartermaster  informs  me  that  he  has  oxen  for  me  at  Port 
Townsend,  and  if  I  will  detail  a  party  to  bring  them  through,  he  will  de 
liver  them  at  Seattle,  which  I  cannot  do,  as  I  cannot  spare  the  men  ;  and 
again,  by  the  time  the  cattle  gets  through  the  mens'  time  will  have  ex 
pired. 

Those  at  Fort  Hays  I  shall  endeavor  to  get  through,  as  they  are 
necessary  in  this  section  for  work.  I  have  already  pretty  well  opened  the 
trail  to  the  Summit,  and  have  ordered  the  party  on  their  return  to  put 
some  more  work  upon  it. 

Your  request  in  yours  of  11th,  and  relative  to  the  report  of  the 
amount  of  articles  drawn  by  each  individual  cannot  be  complied  with,  as 
a  portion  of  the  articles  furnished  by  Quartermaster  has  no  prices  at 
tached.  It  will  be  attended  to  as  soon  as  the  prices  can  be  obtained. 

In  accordance  with  your  iustructions  I  shall  make  requisition  on  the 
Quartermaster  at  Port  Townsend  for  supplies  for  Col.  Shaw,  and  have 
the  same  in  readiness  at  Fort  Tilton. 

Respectfully  yours, 
(Signed,)  J.  J.  H.  VAN  BOKKELIN, 

Com'g.  Northern  Battalion,  W.  T.  Volunteers. 


[No.  282.] 

OFFICE  A 

Olympia,  Nov.  9th,  1855. 


OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V., ) 


Capt.  C.  C.  HEWITT, 

Commanding  Company  H,  1st  Regiment  W.  T.  V. : 

SIR  : — Herewith  you  will  receive  your  commission  as  Captain  of 
Company  H,  of  1st  Regiment  Washington  Territory  Volunteers. 

You  will  take  the  enclosed  military  oath  before  any  magistrate,  and 
cause  the  officers,  non-commissioned,  privates,  to  take  the  same.  Any  who 
refuse  will  not  be  received  into  the  service. 


345 

Your  duty  will  be  to  proceed  to  the  Forks  of  the  White  river,  estab 
lish  a  communication  with  Capt.  Maloney,  report  for  orders  from  him  to 
act  in  concert  with  the  forces  under  his  command. 
Very  respectfully,  &c., 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adj?t  Gen.  W.  T.  Y. 


[No.  283.] 

SEATTLE,  November  12th,  1855. 
Hon.  C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor  Washington  Territory,  Olympia  : 

SIR  :  —  On  my  way  to  this  place  I  called  at  Fort  Steilacoom.  An 
express  had  just  arrived  bringing  intelligence  that  Capt,  Malony  had  fal 
len  back  to  within  ten  miles  of  the  Fort.  It  will  therefore  be  impossible 
for  me  to  form  a  junction  with  him  at  present  on  account  of  high  water  in 
the  White  and  Puyallup  rivers,  as  well  as  the  stream  running  across  from 
the  former  to  the  latter.  I  have  therefore  concluded  to  send  out  a  party 
to  blockade  the  trail  leading  from  Green  river  to  the  Sound,  and  await 
until  I  can  get  arms  for  all  my  company.  At  present  we  have  but  thirty- 
five  effective  guns,  and  my  company  now  numbers  62,  and  I  think  by  to 
morrow  will  be  increased  to  70. 

I  have  learned  by  Indians  that  all  the  stock  on  White  river  has  been 
either  killed  or  driven  off.  I  shall,  therefore,  have  to  call  for  more  provi 
sions,  as  I  was  in  hopes  to  find  plenty,  of  beef. 

*  *  *  *  #  #  #  *  :Je  *  * 

We  are  getting  our  block-house  along  as  fast  as  possible.  We  have 
the  cannon  mounted  and  ready  for  use. 

Respectfully  yours,  &c., 

C.  C.  HEWITT, 
Capt.  Company  H,  W.  T.  Volunteers. 


44 


[No.  284.] 

OFFICE  ADJ'T  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V., ) 
Olympia,  Nov.  24th,  1855.         j 

Capt.  C.  C.  HEWITT, 

Commanding  Company  H,  W.  T.  Volunteers  : 

SIR  :— The  steamer  "Traveler"  is  despatched  to  carry  your  company 
to  your  post  at  junction  of  White  and  Green  rivers.     Should  you  be  called 
upon  before  leaving  Seattle,  you   will  aid  the  Indian  agent  or  sub-agent 
to  remove  the  Indians  from  Seattle,  and  if  necessary  employ  force  in  co 
ercing  obedience  from  the  Indians  or  preventing  any  interference  from  the 
white  men  who  may  attempt  to  prevent  their  intention  to  remove  the  In 
dians  from  the  eastern  to  the  western  side  of  the  Sound. 
Report  to  this  office  as  frequently  as  possible. 
I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

JAMES  TILTON, 
Adjutant  General  W.  T.  Y. 

By  order  of  the  Acting  Governor. 


[No.  285.] 

EXECUTIVE  0] 

OLYMPIA,  Feb.  1st,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,  ) 


Lieut.  Col.  E.  LANDER, 

Commanding  Post  at  Seattle  : 

DEAR  SIR  :---I  have  determined  to  disband  the  existing  organization 
entirely,  and  to  accept  the  services  of  no  volunteers,  except  for  six  months, 
and  subject  to  the  order  of  the  Executive. 

Accordingly,  the  company  recently  raised  at  Seattle  will  be  disband 
ed,  and  you  are  instructed  to  enlist  as  large  a  force  as  possible,  in  con 
formity  with  the  requirements  of  the  proclamation. 

Every  man  who  enlists  must  do  so  with  the  understanding  that  he 


347 

enlists  for  the  general  defence  of  the  Territory,  and  that  he  must  move  to 
any  point,  where  his  services,  in  the  opinion  of  his  commanding  officer,  are 
most  needed. 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Governor  Territory  Washington. 


[No.  286.] 

OFFICE  j 

OLYMPIA,  April  13th,  1856. 


OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V.,  ) 


Capt.  E.  LANDER, 

Com'g.  Company  A,  1st  Reg't.  W.  T.  Volunteers  : 
SIR  : — You  are  hereby  ordered  to  employ  as  many  more  of  the  In 
dians  now  upon  Dr.  Maynard's  reservation,  together  with  such  as  you  may 
choose  to  employ  of  those  now  at  Seattle — organize  the  whole  into  a  war 
party,  and  either  command  them  yourself,  or  detail  a  commander. 

Push  the  party  in  canoes  up  the  Duwamish  river,  and  give  them  or 
ders  to  act  against  the  enemy  as  they  best  can,  by  engaging  the  parties 
now  infesting  the  country  to  the  eastward  of  Seattle,  and  endeavoring  to 
drive  the  hostile  savages  towards  the  Muckleshoot  prairie,  or  falling  upon 
any  parties  who  may  be  endeavoring  to  make  their  way  from  the  Duwam 
ish  river  towards  the  Snoqualmie  pass. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adft  Gen'l  W.  T.  V. 
By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-chief,  W.  T.  V. 


348 

[No.  287.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,   ) 
Olympia,  Feb.  lTth,  1856.         ) 

Lieut.  Col.  E.  LANDER, 

Commanding  Seattle : 

DEAR  SIR  : — I  have  written  Capt.  Gansevoort,  urging  him,  after  the 
Active  has  landecl  troops  and  supplies  at  the  north  of  the  Sno-ho-mish,  to 
keep  her  cruising  the  whole  time  between  Port  Townsend,  Bellingham 
Bay,  and  Seattle. 

You  are  instructed  to  see  Capt.  Gansevoort  and  enforce  this  request 
with  any  argument  in  your  power.  I  deem  it  essential  to  the  security  of 
the  lower  settlements  from  the  incursions  of  the  Northern  Indians. 

My  information  is  that  16  northern  war  canoes  will,  as  soon  as  the 
winter  breaks,  make  a  dash  upon  the  Sound.  The  Active  will  keep  them 
back. 

This  information  comes  from  Fitzhugh  ;  but  it  will  cause  no  change 
in  my  plans  from  the  line  of  the  Sno-ho-mish.  Pat  Kanim  has  been  rein 
forced  by  25  friendly  Indians,  and  the  operations  there  must  be  supported, 
and  my  instructions  to  Capt.  Ebey  vigorously  carried  out. 

One  hundred  and  sixty  volunteers  are  now  at  Yelm  prairie.  The 
works  are  completed  there,  and  day  after  to-morrow  we  move  to  Mont 
gomery's.  In  ten  days  we  hope  to  be  in  the  heart  of  the  Indian  country. 

I  shall  cover  an  advance  by  80  friendly  Indians. 

The  weekly  express  will  touch  at  Seattle  both  ways.  Report  fully 
as  to  operations  there,  and  make  your  requisitions  for  supplies  early. 

Truly  and  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.-  288.] 

POST  AT  SEATTLE,  March  3d,  1856. 

Major  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V.: 

SIR: — By  special  instructions  of  February  12th,  I  am  instructed  to 
employ  Indians  on  Dr.  Maynard's  reservation  in  offensive  operations. 


349 

*•• 

I  am  informed  by  the  Ageiit,  Dr.  Maynard,  that  they  are  no  longer  in 
clined  to  operate  with  the  whites,  and  therefore  I  have  not  organized  those 
Indians. 

In  pursuance  of  special  orders  of  February  1st,  I  have  discharged  all 
soldiers  refusing  to  be  sworn  for  the  service  during  six  months,  and  for 
ward  original  muster  roll  and  muster  of  March  1st. 

In  pursuance  of  special  order  from  the  Commander-in-chief  and  Sup 
erintendent  of  Indian  Affairs,  the  Indians  at  Seattle  and  on  the  shore  of 
Elliott's  Bay,  have  been  moved  to  the  western  shore  of  Admiraly  Inlet. 
Their  removal  is  due  to  the  exertions  of  H.  L.  Yesler,  assisted  by  H.  H. 
Tobin,  special  Indian  agent.  If  consistent  with  the  views  of  the  Com 
mander-in-chief,  Indian  agents  bringing  Indians  to  that  point  might  be  re 
quired  to  report  their  arrival  and  also  the  number  of  Indians  that  may  be 
.in  the  company. 

Commander  Swartwout  has  retained  for  his  special  service  eight  In 
dians,  with  their  families.  Their  names  are  as  follows  :  "  Old  Curly, 
Curley's  Charley,  Jim,  Lochey,  Bob — (old  man  at  Conley's,)  Cowlitz  and 
Jim's  John."  The  number  of  squaws  and  children  with  these  Indians  has 
not  been  stated  to  me. 

There  is  employed  in  service  of  the  Territory  one  Indian  called 
George,  and  there  are  two  in  private  families  not  yet  removed. 

There  are  grounds  for  believing  that  Indians  are  camped  on  the  lakes 
in  this  vicinity,  and  on  the  streams  running  into  them.  In  my  opinion  no 
attack  can  be  made  upon  them  without  means  of  conveyance  upon  the 
water. 

Indians  employed  for  this  purpose  can  only  be  obtained  by  prompt 
payment.  Could  means  of  payment  be  devised  for  them  this  difficulty 
would  be  in  some  measure  overcome. 

Reports  by  persons  deemed  trustworthy  are  made  of  intended  attacks 
upon  this  post  by  Indians  in  force.     A  scout  was  made  by  my  command 
in  direction  of  the  lake  and  river  but  no  signs  of  Indians  were  discovered, 
and  it  is  thought  no  immediate  attack  is  to  be  feared. 
I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  EDWARD  LANDER, 

Capt.  (Co.  A,)  Com'g.  Post  at  Seattle. 


350 

[No.  289.] 

OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V., ) 
OLYMPIA,  Jan.  14th,  1856.          ) 

Col.  CROSBIE, 

Aid  to  Coinmander-in-Chief : 

SIR  : — You  will  proceed  to  Seattle.  Your  mission  there  is  to  endea 
vor  to  impress  upon  the  naval  officer  in  command  in  the  harbor,  the  utility 
and  practicability  of  a  combined  naval  and  military  movement  from  Seat 
tle  to  the  Lake  Duwamish. 

The  plan  which  seems  best  is  for  the  shipping  to  furnish  boats  and 
men  to  man  them  ;  take  on  board  the  company  "  A,"  of  Capt.  Lander, 
and  examine  the  shores  of  the  Lake,  making  such  expeditions  therefrom 
as  may  seem  advisable. 

Or,  for  the  boat  expedition  to  be  manned  exclusively  from  the  ves 
sels,  and  the  town  of  Seattle  being  left  garrisoned  by  detachments  from 
the  ship,  the  company  of  Capt.  Lander  to  cut  a  road  from  the  town  to 
the  Lake,  join  there  the  naval  forces,  and  erect  a  block-house  or  block 
houses  at  such  points  as  will  be  easily  supplied  and  communicated  with 
upon  both  the  east  and  the  west  shores  of  the  Lake. 

The  details  will  of  course  be  governed  by  circumstances,  but  the 
chief  object  of  your  mission  will  be  accomplished  if  you  can  induce  the  for 
ces  now  occupying  the  town  and  harbor  of  Seattle  to  demonstrate  their 
ability  to  advance,  occupy  and  maintain  a  footing  in  the  country  lying 
eastward  of  Seattle. 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed,)  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adj't.  Gen.  W.  T.  Yolunteers. 
By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


NOTES  FOR  LIEUT.  COL.  CROSBIE. 

The  Massachusetts,  in  moving  on  the  Sound,  will  require  but  very 
few  men  in  addition  to  those  required  to  work  the  steamer. 

The  Decatur  lying  at  Seattle  is  invulnerable  to  attack,  with  40  men 
on  board. 


351 

Thus  to  garrison  Seattle  aiid  fit  out  a  boat  expedition  to  the  Lakesr 
150  men  at  least  would  be  available. 

Let  50  occupy  Seattle.     Let  100  men  go  with  the  boats. 

Let  Col.  Lander  build  his  block-house  on  the  shores  of  the  Lake  and 
open  the  road  to  Seattle. 

If  there  be  two  companies  of  regulars  at  Seattle,  the  whole  of  them, 
except  some  thirty  occupying  two  block-houses  on  the  Duwamish — one 
at  the  Forks  of  Black  and  White  rivers,  and  one  immediate  between  these 
Forks  and  the  Forks  of  Green  and  White  rivers,  would  be  available  for 
blows  upon  the  enemy  in  conjunction  with  the  forces  operating  from  the 
Muckleshoot. 

The  boats  of  the  navy  could  transport  their  force  to  any  part  of  the 
Lake,  where  they  might  push  forward  into  the  country. 

Col.  Lander's  force  would  hold  the  block-house  on  the  Lake  and  keep 
open-  the  communication-  with  Seattle. 

(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief, 


[No.  290.] 

OFFK 

Olympia,  April  13th,  1856. 


OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENEBAL;  W.  T.  V.,  7 


Lieut.  Col.  LANDER, 

Commanding  Post  on  Duwamish  River  : 

SIR  : — Mr.  Yesler,  of  Seattle,  reports  a  possibility  of  inducing  the 
savages  now  occupying  the  shores  of  Lake  Washington,  Squaw  Lake,  and 
the  country  adjacent,  to  come  in  to  the  reservation. 

He  also  gives  it  as  his  opinion  that  Nelson  and  others  implicated  in 
the  murders  of  families  upon  the  Duwamish  river,  can  be  taken. 

You  are  hereby  instructed  to  concert  measures  for  the  attainment  of 
these  objects  with  Mr.  Yesler,  and  to  employ  the  force  under  your  com 
mand  in  such  a  manner  as  in  your  opinion  will  be  most  conducive  to  so 
desirable  a  result. 

Also,  you  are  instructed  to  make  discrimination  between  such  as  are  pro 
per  to  send  to  the  reservation,  and  such  as  may  be  tried  for  the  murders 


352 

committed.  Collect  proof,  and  bearing  in  mind  that  a  marked  difference 
exists  between  the  persons  who  have  committed  murders  and  incited  war, 
and  their  comparatively  innocent  followers. 

Those  who  you  may  have  reason  to  suppose  to  be  murderers,  or  to 
have  incited  the  war,  you  will  send  here  with  the  witnesses  or  such  other 
proof  as  you  may  deem  essential,  to  be  tried  by  a  military  commission. 
Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjt.  Gen.  W.  T.  Y. 
By  order  of  the  Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  291.] 

FORT 

April  24th,  1856. 


FORT  ox  DUWAMISH  RIVER,  ) 


JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  Y.: 

SIR  : — I  have  to  report  that  in  pursuance  of  orders,  Mr.  Yesler  visi 
ted  the  Indians  residing  on  the  Duwamish  Lake,  and  on  his  return, 
reported  to  me  that  nearly  forty  of  them  had  already  started  for  the 
Duwamish  reservation,  and  that  he  thought  the  remainder  would  consent 
to  go  there  also,  when  he  saw  them  again.  He  returned  to  the  Lake  at 
once,  and  on  Tuesday  the  21st,  at  noon,  he  reported  to  me  that  all  the 
Indians  except  those  in  one  camp,  who  refused  to  come  in,  had  started  for 
the  reservation  by  Union  Lake  portage. 

I  immediately  detailed  Lieut.  Neely  with  a  Sergeant  and  twelve  men 
in  two  canoes  to  proceed  at  once  to  the  Lake  by  the  way  of  Black  river, 
with  a  view  of  surprising  their  camp,  and  striking  any  Indians  who  might 
be  found  on  the  Lake  shore.  It  was  expected  that  the  canoes  would  be 
able  to  get  to  the  Lake  by  dark  and  strike  the  Indians  at  early  dawn  the 
next  morning.  Black  river  however,  was  found  to  be  much  higher  and 
more  rapid  than  usual,  and  closed  to  some  extent  by  fallen  trees  ;  and  af 
ter  working  all  night  in  the  rain,  the  command  was  six  miles  from  the 
camp  at  day-light  the  enext  morning.  Mr.  Neely  remained  concealed 
on  shore  all  that  day  and  a  portion  of  the  night,  and  at  twelve  o'clock 


started  for  the  camp — landed  on  tho  shore,  and  leaving  four  men  in  charge 
of  the  canoes,  marched  through  the  woods  for  half  an  hour.  At  the  first 
light  he  found  himself  within  four  hundred  yards  of  two  large  houses,  not 
dismantled,  and  with  every  sign  of  occupancy  the  day  before.  Following 
down  the  trail  another  house  was  found  and  a  canoe  partially  finished. 
The  camp  was  on  the  edge  of  a  large  willow  swamp,  and  could  not  be 
reached  from  the  Lake  through  the  swamp.  No  Indians  were  found  at 
either  camp  ;  they  had  evidently  left  the  first  camp  a  very  short  time  be 
fore.  At  the  first  place  of  landing  were  the  remains  of  a  large  encamp 
ment  of  at  least  four  hundred  Indians,  judging  by  the  fires  and  other  signs. 
Here  were  found  wheat,  peas  and  ox-bones,  showing  clearly  that  to  this 
place,  the  Indians  who  attacked  Seattle  and  plundered  and  burned  the 
houses  on  the  river  retreated,  to  enjoy,  their  plunder.  Mr.  Neeley  made  a 
<very  careful  examination  of  the  east  shore  of  the  Lake,  and  is  satisfied 
that  some  few  Indians  arc  still  lurking  there.  He  returned  to  Black  river 
early  this  morning,  finding  encamped  there  on  the  North  bank,  Capt. 
Howe,  with  two  companies  of  the  Northern  Battalion,  on  their  return  to 
Fort  Tilton  ;  Lieut.  Nugen  with  a  command  of  regulars  preparing  to  cross 
with  a  view  to  scout,  having  left  Seattle  on  Thursday,  and  Lieut.  Denny 
with  twenty-one  men  of  Company  "A,"  who  had  feeen  ordered  to  move 
forward  to  Black  river  to  cross  it  with  the  canoes  which  Lieut.  Neely's 
command  would  have  there  by  three  o'clock  on  Wednesday  ;  and  having 
crossed  it  to  make  the  best  of  his  way  by  means  of  a  compass  to  the  prai 
ries  on  the  meridian  line. 

Mr.  Denny  had  arrived  on  Wednesday  at  noon  in  advance  of  Capt. 
Howe,  who  ha^  been  inviied  by  me  to  co-operate  in  the  movement.  Not 
being  met  by  Lieut.  Neely,  he  proceeded  to  build  a  raft  but  was  unable 
to  cross  his  men  upon  it  from  the  swiftness  of  the  current. 

Mr.  Neely,  on  his  arrival  with  one  canoe,  ferried  over  Capt.  Howe's 
command  to  the  north  bank  of  Cedar  creek,  and  with  the  other  ferried 
Lieut.  Denny's  command  over  to  the  south  side  of  Black  river,  and  with 
three  men  of  his  detail  accompanied,  Mr.  Denny  on,  his  route  to  the  prai 
ries,  sending  back  to  his  post  the  remainder  of  his  command. 

Although  the  expedition  of  Mr.  Neeley  was  unsuccessful  in  taking  or 
destroying  the  Indians  left  by  Mr.  Yesler,  owing  to  their  sudden  depar 
ture  from  their  camp,  yet  the  command  is  entitled  to  great  credit  for  their 
perseverence  through  the  first  day  and  night  in  endeavoring  to  reach  the 
lake  before  day,  and  their  patience  in  remaining  hidden  until  the  cext 
night,  and  for  their  precautions  taken  to  come  upon  the  camp  at  dawn. 
Mr.  Neely  made  every  effort  to  carry  out  his  instructions,  and  I  would 
particularly  state,  that  upon  their  expedition  as  upon  numerous  other  ex 
peditions  since  he  has  been  attached  to  Company  "A, "he  has  always 
45 


354 

led  his  scouting  parties  with  great  discretion  and  never  failed  to  do  his 
duty,  generally  of  the  most  fatigueing  kind. 

I  deem  it  my  duty  in  this  connection  to  say,  that  the  officers  and 
men  of  this  company  have  always  performed  their  duty  most  cheerfully 
and  faithfully  ;  and  although  it  has  not  been  their  good  fortune  in  numer 
ous  searches  to  find  the  enemy,  nor  to  be  attacked  by  them,  they  have 
undergone  as  much  as  those  whose  luck  has  been  better. 

The  first  occupation  of  the  post  at  Seattle  was  a  severe  duty.  The 
alarm  of  the  citizens,  and  the  believed  imminent  danger  of  attack  rendered 
necessary  a  long  line  of  sentinels  and  a  corresponding  amount  of  guard 
duty,  always  harrassing.  The  work  on  barricades  and  large  block-house 
was  pushed  forward  as  rapidly  as  possible,  and  a  smaller  block-house  for 
stores  was  also  built.  When  by  the  aid  of  the  naval  forces  the  guard  du 
ty  was  made  much  lighter,  strong  scouting  parties  were  pushed  out  in 
every  direction.  The  woods  surrounding  Seattle  were  thoroughly  scoured, 
both  on  the  trails  and  off.  The  Indians  lurking  in  them  were  driven  out, 
the  Duwamish  river  was  freed  from  them,  they  were  driven  over  Black 
river,  and  the  whole  western  shore  of  the  great  Lake  was  examined  ;  the 
favorite  portage  of  the  Indians,  between  the  great  Lake  and  the  Sound, 
by  the  way  of  Lake  Union  and  Salmon  Bay,  was  watched  by  parties  night 
and  day  until  they  ceased  to  use  it. 

On  the  arrival  cf  Capt.  Swartwout  upon  the  Massachusetts,  the  oc 
cupation  of  the  town  by  the  naval  forces  being  understood  from  him  to  be 
permanent,  which  had  not  previously  been  the  case,  and  the  completion  of 
the  block-houses  in  Seattle,  a  large  block-house  was  commenced  in  Seattle 
to  be  erected  upon  the  Duwamish  river,  as  no  suitable  timber  could  be 
obtained  near  the  proposed  site.  A  slight  delay  was  occasioned  in  the 
work  by  the  sudden  withdrawal  of  the  naval  forces,  which  delay  was  how 
ever  soon  remedied.  The  block-house  was  finished  in  town  and  in  two 
days  time  conveyed  up  the  river— erected  and  roofed.  Since  then  a  stock 
ade  ninety-eight  feet  long  and  fifty-eight  wide,  with  a  bastion,  has  been 
erected.  In  the  prosecution  of  so  much  work  it  has  been  necessary  to 
call  upon  the  men  to  run  saw-mills,  to  act  as  engineers,  firemen,  raftsmen, 
log-cutters  and  mechanics,  in  addition  to  their  duties  as  soldiers,  and  there 
has  been  no  refusals. 

Detailed  accounts  of  scouts,  however  laborious  and  praiseworthy,  where 
no  brilliant  results  have  followed  have  not  been  made,  as  it  has  not  been 
deemed  necessary  to  trouble  the  Commander  in-Chief  with  them.  Nor 
has  the  account  of  the  progress  of  the  different  block-houses  that  have  been 
built,,  been  forwarded  for  the  snrne  reason  ;  and  it  was  also  supposed  that 
Lieut.  Col.  Crosbie,  Aid-de-camp  to  the  Commander-in-chief,  would  report 


355 

all  that  wonld  be  desirable  to  be  known,  on  his  return  from  his  visit  of 
inspection. 

To  make  the  Fort  on  the  Dumainish  river  easily  defensible,  a  great 
deal  of  work  must  be  done,  and  it  will  be  resumed  on  the  return  of  the 
party  under  Mr.  Denny. 

I  have  further  to  report  that  immediately  on  the  return  of  the  party 
from  the  Lake,  deeming  the  observations  of  it  important  while  these  par 
ties  were  engaged  in  the  country  south  and  east  of  it,  I  ordered  1st  Ser 
geant  Henning  to  take  a  party  of  eight  men  and  proceed  through  the 
woods  to  the  Union  Lake  portage,  distant  sixteen  miles,  and  watch  the 
Lake  and  portage  for  parties  of  Indians  passing  near  him.  In  so  doing 
he  was  compelled  to  take  a  portion  of  the  men  who  had  just  returned 
from  a  severe  scout,  as  most  of  those  remaining  were  unfit  for  marching 
<luty. 

The  usual  ration  of  twelve  ounces  of  pork,  which  from  the  abundance 
of  fish  in  Seattle,  was  sufficient  while  the  company  was  stationed  there, 
did  not  subsist  the  men  for  the  first  three  weeks  while  stationed  at  this 
post.  I  therefore  ordered  an  issue  of  a  ration  of  fourteen  ounces  of  pork 
for  the  past  week,  which  has  proved  amply  sufficient.  This  issue  will  not 
be  continued  unless  approved.  An  issue  of  potatoes  will  be  beneficial  to 
the  health  of  the  men,  and  Lieut.  Matthias  could  probably  obtain  them 
for  that  purpose  if  authorized  so  to  do. 

Mr.  Yesler  has  not  yet  reported  as  to  the  guilt  of  the  Indians  brought 
in  by  him,  but  he  has  been  directed  to  make  diligent  inquiry  on  that  head. 
My  attention  has  been  called  by  the  last  order  to  the  fact  that  an  express 
boat  calls  at  Seattle  every  week.  This  post  is  distant  from  Seattle  and 
the  communication  is  ever  uncertain,  as  there  are  no  horses  at  this  post 
nor  Indians  for  canoe  expresses.  The  want  of  horses  arid  canoes  for  pub 
lic  service  is  much  felt. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  EDWARD  LANDER. 


356 

[No.  292.] 

OFFI 

Olympia,  April  15th,  1856. 


OFFICE  ADJ'T  GENERAL,  W.  T.  Y.,    ) 

f 


Lieut.  Col.  LANDER, 

Coni'g.  Post  on  Duwamish  River  : 

SIR  : — I  have  received  information  from  Steilacoom  that  Capt.  Dent, 
with  two  companies,  will  make  an  expedition  shortly  from  Dent's  Post,  to 
the  shores  of  Lake  Washington,  and  will  co-operate  with  boats  to  be  sent 
from  the  Bay  of  Seattle,  by  the  men-of-war  lying  in  that  harbor. 

I  send  you  this  information  for  your  guidance  in  the  hope  you  can 
concert  with  Mr.  Yesler  and  Capt.  Dent,  such  measures  as  will  disinfest 
the  country  adjacent  to  Seattle  of  the  bands  which  are  in  that  vicinity,  and 
especially  capture  Nelson  and  the  murderers  of  the  families  upon  the  Du 
wamish. 

Very  respectfully,  &c., 

JAMES  TITON, 
Adjutant  General  W.  T.  Volunteers. 
By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Conimander-in-Chief, 


[No.  293.] 

FORT  ON  DUWAMISH,  April  28,  1856. 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  Y.: 

SIR  : — Under  date  of  24th  of  April,  a  report  was  made  of  the  opera 
tions  of  my  command  to  that  date,  and  I  now  have  to  report  that  Lieut. 
Denny  with  his  party  returned  on  yesterday  to  this  post  from  the  scout  to 
the  meridian  prairies. 

Lieut.  Denny  crossed  Black  river  on  the  morning  of  the  25th,  after 
awaiting  a  day  and  a  half  for  canoes.  Finding  the  raft  he  constructed 
could  not  be  used  in  the  current,  Lieut.  Nugen,  commanding  detachment 
of  regular  forces,  kindly  offered  to  Denny  the  use  of  his  canoe  to  cross  the 


357 

river  with  ;  but  the  opportune  arrival  of  Lieut.  Neely  with  the  canoes  of 
his  party,  prevented  the  necessity  of  taking  advantage  of  the  courtesy  of 
Lieut.  Xugeu. 

Immediately  after  crossing,  he  followed  the  Territorial  road  as  blazed 
through  the  low  ground  near  the  river,  and  upon  getting  upon  the  bluff 
took  a  course  by  compass  south  24°  east,  expecting  this  to  bring  them  to 
the  prairies  in  a  march  of  ten  miles.  About  three  miles  from  the  river  an 
old  Indian  trail  was  crossed,  which  from  its  general  direction  appeared  to 
lead  from  White  river  to  Cedar  creek  ;  but  not  to  have  been  used  lately 
to  any  extent  if  at  all.  The  country  after  leaving  the  bluff  was  found  to 
be  good,  and  the  woods  generally  easy  to  march  through  ;  so  that  there 
was  but  little  delay  occasioned  on  the  march. 

Lieut.  Denny  went  as  he  supposed  from  twelve  to  fifteen  miles  in  the 
direction  he  had  taken  before  he  left,  and  could  find  no  signs  of  the  prai 
ries,  as  the  distance  he  had  come  was  more  than  sufficient  to  have  found 
them  if  the  direction  taken  from  the  bluff  had  been  correct.  He  was 
compelled  to  conclude  that  he  had  taken  a  wrong  direction.  As  he  had 
but  one  day's  provisions  left,  and  a  two  day's  inarch  before  him  on  his  re 
turn,  he  very  properly  decided  to  proceed  no  farther. 

On  his  return  he  found  encamped  on  Black  river  Lieut.  Nugen  and 
his  command,  who  had  arrived  some  two  days  previously.  Mr.  Denny's 
want  of  success  in  finding  the  prairies,  is  to  be  attributed  to  the  delay  in 
crossing  Black  river,  and  the  wrong  direction  taken  from  the  bluffs,  which 
was  in  pursuance  of  my  instruction.  No  time  was  left  to  explore  the 
country  on  either  side  of  the  line  followed,  and  all  was  done  that  it  was 
possible  to  be  done  to  effect  the  object  desired.  It  is  to  be  regretted 
that  the  prairies  were  not  reached,  as  Capt.  Dent  would  have  been  met 
there. 

The  party  sent  to  the  portage  under  1st  Sergeant  Henning,  returned 
to  the  post  this  afternoon  after  four  days  absence.  The  party  marched 
upon  the  Seattle  trail  for  some  four  miles  and  then  struck  off  through  the 
woods  skirting  the  lake  to  the  portage.  No  Indian  signs  were  discovered 
on  the  roads.  At  the  portage  on  the  Dtiwamish,  four  canoes  were  found. 
In  Union  Lake  none  were  discovered.  During  the  stay  at  the  portage 
sentinels  were  posted  to  command  both  the  lakes,  and  one-half  of  the  par 
ty  kept  watching  on  the  trail  day  and  night.  No  fires  were  seen  on  the 
shore,  or  canoes  on  either  lake.  On  his  return  down  the  lake,  the  western 
shore  of  the  lake  and  island  were  carefully  examined,  and  a  party  under 
Sergeant  Webbins  landed  at  Clark's  prairie  and  went  through  the  woods 
to  this  post.  The  rest  of  the  party  and  the  1st  Sergeant  continued  down 
the  lake  to  Black  river,  and  met  at  Tobins'  mill,  Capt.  Dent,  with  eighty- 
five  men,  returning  to  Fort  Dent.  It  was  stated  to  the  Sergeant  that 


358 

€apt.  Dent  had  found  twenty  families  high  up  Cedar  creek — had  killed 
two  Indians  and  drove  the  remainder  before  him.  One  man  of  Capt. 
Dent's  command  was  badly  wounded. 

Sergeant  Henning  was  just  recovering  from  a  severe  attack  of  sick 
ness,  and  volunteered  for  the  duty  from  which  he  had  just  returned,  and 
he  has  always  shown  himself  a  zealous  and  efficient  officer,  especially  in 
command  of  scouting  parties.  Second  Sergeant  lioss  is  now  absent 
with  a  party  of  twelve  men  on  the  way  to  the  portage  to  occupy  the 
position  held  by  Sergeant  Henning.  It  is  thought  that  the  Indians  re 
maining  on  the  lakes  will  seek  the  opportunity  of  hiding  in  the  country 
north  of  Lake  Union  and  Trial  lakes.  Some  slight  fears  are  entertained 
by  me,  though  not  by  Mr.  Yesler,  that  some  of  the  Indians  lately  gone  to 
the  reservation  may  return  ;  should  they  attempt  to  do  so,  they  would  be 
intercepted  by  this  party. 

Mr.  Denny  has  been  ordered  to  move  with  a  party  of  twenty  men  to 
Squaw  Lake  prairies,  to  be  accompanied  by  Mr.  Yesler  and  two  friendly 
Indians,  as  soon  as  Mr.  Yesler  reports  his  arrangements  made. 

The  information  from  head  quarters  as  to  Capt.  Dent's  movements, 
which  reached  me  to  day,  had  been  anticipated  as  far  as  my  force  allowed, 
and  two  parties  were  operating — one  on  the  Lake,  and  one  on  the  south 
and  east  of  it ;  and  although  no  armed  boats  were  on  the  lake,  still  their 
place  was  supplied  with  two  canoes.  Without  any  positive  information, 
it  seems  to  me  Capt.  Dent  found  his  Indians  some  fourteen  miles  up  Cedar 
creek. 

Mr.  Yesler  had  informed  me  that  old  "Dare,"  the  Indian  who  brought 
to  Seattle  the  three  children  after  the  massacre  at  White  river,  was  up 
Cedar  creek,  and  it  was  suggested  to  Mr.  Denny  if  his  provisions  held  out, 
to  come  down  Cedar  creek  and  try  to  seize  him  alive.  It  is  probable 
there  were  other  families  with  him. 

I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,)  EDWARD  LANDER, 

Com'g.  Post  at  Seattle. 


359 


[No.  204.] 

OFFICE 

OLYMPIA,  May  4th,  1856. 


OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V.,  > 

I 


Lieut.  Col.  LANDER, 

Com'g.  Co.  "A,"  2d  Reg't.  W.  T.  Volunteers : 

SIR  : — Your  letter  dated  28th  April  and  2d  May,  is  received. 

The  Commander-m-chief  desires  me  to  express  to  yourself  and  Com 
pany  "  A,"  his  high  sense  of  your  late  valuable  and  arduous  scouting 
service. 

With  regard  to  that  part  of  your  letter  of  the  2d  May,  in  which  you 
state  that  citizens  of  Seattle  desire  that  town  to  be  garrisoned  by  a  por 
tion  of  Company  "A,"  I  am  instructed  to  reply : 

That  in  the  opinion  of  the  Commander-in-chief,  the  naval  force  in  the 
harbor,  together  with  your  company  on  the  Duwamish,  will  afford  sufficient 
protection,  and  Company  "A"  will  be  better  and  more  usefully  employed 
in  garrisoning  the  post  on  the  Duwamish,  and  scouting,  than  it  would  be 
at  Seattle. 

Therefore  you  will  communicate  with  the  naval  commander  in  the 
Bay,  and  endeavor  to  prevail  upon  that  officer  to  keep  up  the  garrison 
ashore. 

Assure  the  naval  officer  that  in  any  means  he  may  adopt  to  suppress 
the  infamous  traffiic  with  his  men  ashore,  he  will  be  sustained  by  the  Ex 
ecutive  of  this  Territory,  and  the  power  of  the  Government  will  be  exer 
cised  to  relieve  him  from  any  penalty  he  may  incur  from  any  civil  process 
in  the  matter. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed,)  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adj't.  Gen.  W.  T.  Volunteers. 
By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Conimander-in-Chief. 


[No.  295.] 

OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V.,   > 

i,  1856.        ) 


Lieut.  DENNY, 

Com'g.  Co.  "A,"  2d  Reg't.  W.  T.  Volunteers  : 
SIR  : — As  soon  as  practicable  after  receiving  these  orders,  you  will 


360 

detail  an  officer  and  8  men  to  bold  the  block-house  above  Seattle,  and 
march  with  your  company  to  Fort  Hays,  thence  to  assist  in  cutting  a  road 
to  pass  certain  oxen  over  from  Fort  Hays  to  the  Falls  of  the  Snoqualmie. 
Report  to  this  office  the  probable  time  of  your  departure,  and  make 
a  scout  upon  your  route. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adft  Gertl  W.  T.  V. 
By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-chief,  W.  T.  Y. 


[No.  296.] 

FORT  LANDER,  W,  T.,  June  13,  1856. 

JAMES  TILTON,  ESQ., 

Adjutant  General  Washington  Territory  : 

SIR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  despatch 
of  the  9th  inst.,  and  in  answer  would  say,  that  I  am  utterly  at  a  loss  to 
know  how  I  can  comply  with  the  orders  therein  contained,  to  the  letter. 
If  I  attempt  to  make  the  trip  to  Fort  Hays  a  scout,  I  am  under  the  nec 
essity  of  packing  every  article  requisite,  without  the  aid  of  animals  through 
an  unbroken  forest,  and  under  such  circumstances  it  would  be  impossible 
for  me  to  tell  at  what  time  I  could  reach  the  point  designated  ;  also  the 
future  well  being  of  the  citizens,  if  not  their  very  existence,  demands  the 
presence  of  a  greater  force  than  your  order  designates,  or  than  I  could 
possibly  leave  here.  There  are  now  a  few  farmers  endeavoring  to  raise 
produce  for  the  future  subsistence  of  the  families  in  King  county,  and  who 
are  relying  upon  the  presence  of  my  command  while  so  doing  as  a  safe 
guard,  but  if  they  are  deprived  of  this,  they  must  inevitably  abandon  all 
hope  of  success,  as  they  will  deem  it  unsafe  to  continue  to  work  their  farms 
if  I  abandon  the  occupation  of  the  lakes  by  my  scouts,  not  even  mention 
ing  their  fears  of  hostilities  from  the  Indians  on  the  opposite  side  of  the 
Sound. 

I  earnestly  desire  to  execute  all  orders  promptly  and  efficiently,  and 
I  am  sorry  to  be  compelled  to  say  that  by  so  doing,  in  this  instance,  I 


361 

shall  prostrate  the  interests  and  put  in  jeopardy  the  lives  of  the  citizens  of 
this  section  of  the  country. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Your  .most  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  A.  A.  DENNY, 

1st  Lt.  Com'g.  Co.  A,  W.  T.  Volunteers. 


[  No.  297.  ] 

OFFICI 

OLYMPIA,  June  15th,  1855. 


OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V.,  ) 


Lieut.  DENNY, 

Commanding  Co.  A,  Fort  Lander  : 

Sm  : — Your  letter  of  the  13th  June,  respecting  your  inability  to 
comply  with  the  orders  sent  to  you,  dated  Jane  9,  is  received. 

In  answer,  I  state  your  reasons  for  being  unable  to  make  the  march, 
are  considered  satisfactory.  You  will,  therefore,  make  requisition  upon 
the  special  agent  for  Indians  and  canoes,  and  ccme  by  water  to  Steila- 
coom,  thence  march  out  nine  miles  to  Camp  Montgomery,  where  you  will 
receive  supplies  for  your  command. 

The  representation  of  Capt.  Lander,  that  forty  men  could  be  spared, 
"  the  fact  of  parties  of  from  three  to  five  having  traveled  in  safety  the 
route  from  the  falls  of  the  Snoqualmie  to  Porter's  prairie,  and  the  reports 
of  Mr.  Yessler,  that  but  six  or  eight  Indians  are  still  out  east  of  Seattle," 
are  sufficient  to  warrant  the  leaving  of  the  town  of  Seattle  to  the  protec 
tion  of  the  naval  forces,  and  the  few  settlers  to  be  guarded  by  a  detach 
ment  of  Company  A,  and  the  regulars  at  Fort  Thomas.  Upon  your  rep 
resentation,  this  detachment  may  be  increased  to  twenty  men,  and  the  re 
mainder  of  your  company,  commanded  by  yonrself  or  Lieut.  Neoly,  will 
move  as  soon  as  possible,  and  proceed  by  canoes,  or  any  other  rapid  mode 
of  comrnnnication,  to  join  the  Pioneers,  now  nearly  ready  at  Montgom 
ery's. 

It  will  probably  occupy  fifteen  days  to  cut  the  road  out — there  being 
employed  a  strong  working  party  from  each  end.  The  road  is  absolutely 
essential  to  the  military  operations  contemplated,  and  is  a  part  of  the 
46 


362 

plan  by£ which  ^the  forces  now  en  route  across  the  Yakima  under  Colonel 
Shaw,  are  to  be*supported  or  relieved. 

The  success'of  the  plan'depends^upon  the  prompt  compliance'of  all 
forces  included  in  the  combination,  and  it  is  hoped  that  the  next  report 
from  you  will  represent^at  least  twenty"  men  of  Company *  A,  at  Mont 
gomery's,  where  tools,  transportation  and '  supplies  for  you  are  already 
concentrated. 

Truly  and  respectfully  yours, 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adj't  Gen.  W.  T.  V. 
By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No,  298.] 

FORT  LANDER,  W.  T.,  June  19th,  1856, 

JAMES  TILTON,  ESQ., 

Adj't  Gen.  W.  T.  V.,  Olympia  : 

SIR  : — Your  despacth  of  June  16th  is  received,  and  I  have,  in  reply, 
to  say  that  I  did,  at  the  time  I  last  wrote,  and  do  yet  deem  it  unsafe  to 
withdraw  the  forces  from  this  post;  not  on  account  of  any  considerable 
number  of  Indians  now  supposed  to  be  in  the  country  east  of  Seattle,  but 
from  the  fact  that  the  Indians  who  laid  waste  this  section  of  the  country 
are  so  situated  that  they  can,  in  one  night's  time,  reach  and  occupy  their 
old  hiding  places  in,  and  east  of  the  lakes.  I  have,  moreover,  good  rea 
son  to  believe  that  it  is  only  owing  to  the  presence  of  this  command,  and 
the  close  watch  I  have  thus  far  been  enabled  to  keep  of  all  the  trails,  that 
has  prevented  this. 

I  had  supposed  you  were  well  aware  of  the  fact,  there  were  not  to 
exceed  fifteen  men  of  the  naval  forces  now  garrisoning  the  town  of  Se 
attle,  and  that  it  was  their  settled  policy,  .under  no  circumstances,  to  send 
a  force  into  the  interior.  You  must  also  be  aware  of  the  fact  that,  owing 


368 

to  the  withdrawal  of  nearly  the  whole  of  Captain  Dent's  command  from 
Fort  Thomas,  upon  White  river,  their  force  is  only  sufficient  for  post  duty. 
The  same,  too,  would  prove  true  in  respect  to  the  proposed  detachment 
of  Company  A. 

I  anij  to  say  the  least,  extremely  surprised  at  the  opinion  represen- 
£ed  as  expressed  by  Judge  Lander.  During  the  period  of  his  command 
it  was  often  publicly  stated  by  him  that  this  company  was  expressly  or 
ganized  (by  private  understanding  with  the  Governor  and  Commander-in- 
Chief)  for  the  protection  of  this  immediate  neighborhood;  and  that,  for 
this  purpose,  as  well  for  guarding  the  different  avenues  leading  from  the 
Sound  to  the  interior,  and  thus  preventing  the  transit  of  Indians  to  and 
from  the  reserves,  its  presence  here  was  absolutely  indispensable. 

I  have  to  regret  that,  if  under  these  circumstances,  you  deem  it 
'both  safe  and  just  to  this  section,  to  withdraw  the  forces  from  the  post, 
you  could  not  leave  me  the  privilege  of  taking  the  shortest  and  most 
practicable  route  to  the  work  you  require  to  be  done.  This,  a  glance  at 
the  topography  of  the  country,  would  at  once  indicate  to  be  by  water  to 
Camp  Thomas,  thence  by  a  march  of  a  few  miles  to  Fort  Hays. 

I  trust  that  what  I  have  said  in  this  letter,  will  not  be  imputed  to 
any  improper  motive,  as  I  but  express  the  views  and  feelings  of  the  mass 
of  our  citizens— those,  too,  who  have  suffered  perhaps  more  than  any  in 
the  Territory  from  the  ravages  of  the  Indians.  They  are  of  course,  nat 
urally  unwilling  to  be  exposed  to  fresh  outrages  from  the  same  or  other 
savages,  by  the  removal  of  the  only  force  upon  which  they  can  rely  for 
active  operations  outside  of  the  town  of  Seattle. 

The  policy  of  making  requisition  upon  the  Indian  department  here 
for  the  means  of  transportation  would  certainly  be  injudicious,  as  the  In 
dians  would  thus  be  notified  of  the  fact  that  our  forces  were  about  to  be 
withdrawn. 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
{Signed,)  A.  A.  DENNY, 

1st.  Lieut.  Com'g  Co.  A. 


364 

[No.  299.] 

OFF 

Olympia,  June  24th,  1856. 


OFFICE  ADJ'T  GENERAL,  "W.  T.  V., ) 


Lieut.  DENNY, 

Commanding  Co.  A: 

SIR  :— You  are  hereby  ordered  to  turn  over  the  command  of  Co.  A 
to  the  officer  of  that  company  next  in  rank. 

The  reason  of  this  order  will  be  found  in  your  declining  to  obey  the 
former  orders  sent  you  to  send  a  detachment  of  Company  A  to  Fort 
Hays,  afterwards  to  Camp  Montgomery,  and  thereby  causing  a  derange 
ment  of  the  plans  formed,  and  combinations  made  by  the  Commander-in- 
Chief  relative  to  the  concentration  of  a  party  destined  to  open  a  commu 
nication  essential  to  certain  military  movements,  from  Fort  Hays  to  the 
Snoqualmie  pass. 

You  are  hereby  relieved  from  duty  in  the  volunteer  service  until  fur 
ther  orders. 

Respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 

JAMES  TILTON, 
Adjutant  General  W.  T.  Y. 
By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  300.] 

OFFIC 

Olympia,  June  24th,  1856. 


OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  Y., ) 


Lieut.  D,  A.  NEELY, 

2d  Lieut.  Co.  A,  2d  Regt.  W.  T.  Y.: 

SIR  : — You  will  assume  command  of  Company  A,  vice  1st  Lieut. 
Denny,  relieved  from  duty,  and  as  soon  as  possible,  detail  twenty  men 
with  orders  to  report  for  duty  at  Montgomery's,  there  to  meet  a  party  of 
Pioneers  and  other  troops,  who  are  concentrated  there  awaiting  the  arri 
val  of  the  detachment  from  Co.  A,  to  commence  cutting  out  a  military 


365 

road  from  Fort  Hays  to  connect  with  the  road  lately  cut  out  by  the  com 
mand  of  Major  Van  Bokkelen  from  Fort  Alden,  at  the  Snoqualmie  falls, 
to  the  crossing  of  Cedar  creek. 

Supplies,  tools,  pack  animals  and  everything  requisite,  are  awaiting 
the  arrival  of  the  detachment  of  men  from  Company  A,  at  Montgom 
ery's. 

The  former  orders  to  proceed  to  Fort  Hays  are  rescinded,  as  the  reg 
ulars  are  now  in  possession  of  that  post,  and  the  volunteer  forces  have  no 
supplies  there. 

Haley  will  furnish'  transportation  if  you  come  by  water. 

Yours,  respectfully, 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V. 
By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


.  t 


[No.  301.] 

The  following  Letter  and  Resolutions,  mailed  at  Seattle,  on  the  22d 
day  of  July  1856,  were  received  at  the  Executive  Office  at  11 J  A.  M., 

on  the  23d  day  of  July  : 

;«r«!<5;  .-n.iiri'-A  e4*iiif*i«0fig^itonto  •taMMf  Oi 


FORT  LANDER,  28th  June,  1856. 

His  Excellency,  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Cominander-in-Chief : 

SIR  : — With  this  enclosed,  you  find  a  set  of  resolutions  to  which  are 
appended  the  signatures  of  this  entire  company — the  origin  and  intention 
of  which  are  as  follows  : 

On  9th  June,  the  Adjutant  General  issued  orders  to  Lieut.  Denny, 
of  Company  A,  to  detail  eight  men  to  hold  the  block  house  above  Seattle, 
and  to  march  his  company  to  Fort  Hays,  there  to  perform  certain  duties. 


366 

Lieut.  Denny,  for  reasons  given  in  his  note  of  the  13th  June,  awaited 
further  instructions.  The  Adjutant  General,  in  his  order  bearing  date 
16th  June,  says  :  "  Your  reasons  are  satisfactory."  "  You  will,  therefore, 
proceed  to,  etc.," — giving  orders  which  at  once  show  a  lamentable,  not  to 
say  criminal  degree  of  ignorance  with  regard  to  the  country  and  its  vari 
ous  avenues  of  communication  over  which  he  was  moving  men  and  mate 
rial  of  war  every  day.  Lieut.  Denny,  seeing  that  he  was  certainly  in  the 
dark,  asked  leave  to  take  the  most  direct  and  easiest  route  to  the  point 
designated  as  the  rendezvous;  whereupon,  the  Adjutant  General  issued 
order  bearing  date  of  24th  June,  in  which  he  says  "  You  will  turn  over 
the  command  of  Company  A  to  Lieut.  Neely,  and  await  further  orders," 
which  order  he  obeyed,  much  to  the  dissatisfaction  of  the  company.  The 
order  was  read  to  the  company  on  parade,  and  the  command  resigned  to 
the  officer  designated  Immediately  after  which,  the  company  held  a 
meeting,  and  adopted  the  enclosed  resolutions.  In  the  proceedings  had 
in  this  matter,  we  have  intended  to  do  nothing  more  nor  less  than  they 
show  on  their  face.  To  give  a  full,  free  and  decided  expression  of  our 
opinion  and  feelings  on  the  subject. 

With  sentiments  of  due  respect, 

COMPANY  "A." 
W.  T.  Volunteers. 

The  undersigned  members  of  Co.  A,  Washington  Territory  volun 
teers,  do,  by  the  following  resolutions,  express  their  undivided  .sentiment 
with  regard  to  the  matter  herein  alluded  to  : 

Resolved,  That  we  individually,  and  as  a  company,  do  fully  endorse 
and  approve  of  the  course  pursued  by  Lieut.  Denny,  of  Company  A,  in 
his  recent  correspondence  with  the  Adjutant  General  in  regard  to  certain 
orders  by  him  issued. 

Resolved,  That  we  know  Lieut.  Denny  to  be"an  able  and  efficient 
officer,  and  that  we  have  full  confidence  in  him  as  a  commander. 

Resolved,  That  we  do  not  approve  of  the  course  of  the  Commander- 
in-chief  in  suspending  Lieut.  Denny  from  his  command.  But  on  the  con 
trary,  consider  it  an  act  of  injustice,  and  an  insult  to  the  company,  wholly 
unjustifiable  and  uncalled  for. 

Resolved,  That,  in  justice  to  Lieut.  Denny  and  to  this  company,  the 
Commander-in-Chief  should  re-instate  Lieut.  Denny  in  his  command  im 
mediately. 

FORT  LANDER,  June  28th,  1856. 
D.  H.  Neely,  2d  Lieutenant. 
H.  A.  Smith,  Surgeon. 


367 

John  Herming,  1st  Sergeaut. 
C.  D.  Biven,  2d 
J.  Ross,  3d 

Jacob  Wibbins,  4tb      " 
James  Fieldin,  1st    Corporal. 
Walter  Graham,  2d      " 
David  Manner,  3d 
Asa  Fowler,     4th 

PRIVATES  : 

John  Phillips,  Eli  B.  Maple,  William  Woodbridge,  Solomon,  Brunnr 
Charles  Miller,  James  Broad,  Henry  Williams,  B.  W.  Johns,  J.  John 
Moss,  Ira  B.  Burlingame,  James  Morrison,  John  Haney,  C.  C.  Thomp- 
,son,  A.  Hargrave,  Robt.  Hicks,  Alonzo  Russell,  Samuel  Bechtelhei- 
mer,  Joseph  Lake,  Peter  Lauderville,  David  Stanley,  Robert  H.  Beatty, 
Henry  Van  Assett,  B.  L.  Johns,  W.  H.  Gilliam,  W.  W.  Ward,  William 
F.  Johns,  William  H.  Brown,  E.  A.  Clarke,  Lemuel  J.  Holgate,  A.  G, 
Terry,  Geo.  Bouker,  W.  P.  Smith,  S.  A.  Maple. 


[No.  302.] 

OFFICE 

Olympia,  July  27th,  1856, 


OFFICE  ADJUTANT   GENERAL,  W.  T.  V.,  > 


Lieut.  Col.  FITZHUGH, 

Aid,  &c.,  to  Commander-in-Chief : 

SIR  : — Enclosed  you  have  certain  resolutions,  dated  Fort  Lander, 
June  28th,  1856.. 

You  will  show  these  resolutions  to  the  company,  and  request  the 
signers  to  either  repudiate  or  modify  them  in  such  a  manner  as  to  relieve 
themselves  from  the  position  of  disobedience  to  the  orders  which  these 
resolutions  condemn. 

You  will  represent  to  the  company  that  the  resolution  disapproving 
of  the  course  of  the  Commander-in-Chief,  and  considering  it  an  "act  of 
injustice,  and  wholly  uncalled  for,"  places  the  company  in  an  attitude  of 


368 

insubordination  which  will  necessarily  preclude  the  possibility  of  their  be 
ing  honorably  discharged  from  the  service  until  they,  by  their  own  act, 
occupy  different  ground  from  that  of  justifying  disobedience  to  orders. 

There  is  nothing  objectionable  or  improper  in  Company  A  requesting 
the  re-instatement  of  Lieut.  Denny,  and  a  request  to  that  effect  would 
be  properly  considered,  but  by  endorsing  and  sustaining  that  officer  in  his 
refusal  to  obey  orders,  they  participate  in  a  state  of  indiscipline  and  in 
subordination  which  is  destructive  to  efficiency,  and  injurious  to  the  repu 
tation  of  the  volunteer  service  of  W.  T. 

In  the  hope  that  the  intelligent  and  gallant  men  of  Company  A  will 
see  the  matter  in  the  true  light,  and  by  their  act  in  rescinding  those  un- 
military  aud  insubordinate  resolutions,  will  place  them  upon  the  same  foot 
ing  as  the  rest  of  the  regiment,  and  so  enable  the  Commander-in-Chief  to 
report  as  efficient  and  useful  the  whole  body  of  troops  raised  from  the 
citizen  soldiery  of  Washington  Territory, 
I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Yery  respectfully,  &c., 

J.  TILTON, 
Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V. 

By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chicf. 

N.  B. — Of  the  paper  signed  "  Company  A, "  which  accompanied 
the  resolutions,  I  return  it  without  comment :  it  being  anonymous. 


[No.  303.] 

SEATTLE,  W.  T.,  July  29th,  1856. 

His  Excellency  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief  W.  T.  V.,  Olympia  : 

SIR  : — In  pursuance  of  your  orders,  I  arrived  at  this  place  yesterday 
evening,  and  proceeded  to  disband  Company  A  under  the  instructions  con 
tained  in  said  orders.  I  sent  to  camp  for  Mr.  Neely,  Mr.  Ward,  and 
others  of  the  most  intelligent  of  the  company,  and  explained  very  fully, 


369 

and  at  great  length,  the  position  the  company  now  occupied,  your  views 
and  wishes,  and  requested  them  to  talk  to  the  different  members  of  Com 
pany  A,  and  request  them  to  withdraw  those  offensive          *  * 
resolutions. 

I  believe  that  I  succeeded  with  some  six  or  eight  *  *  * 
but  could  do  nothing  with  the  balance.  After  a  great  deal  of  talking 
with  a  great  number  of  them  privately,  I  requested  Mr.  Neely  to  muster 
his  company  before  Mr.  Yessler's  door,  where  they  were  enlisted — made  a 
full  arid  lengthy  explanation  to  them  in  a  body — told  them  that  they  had 
placed  themselves  in  a  false  position — that  they  were  the  only  company  in 
the  service  that  had  disobeyed  orders,  &c.,  &c.  I  said  all  that  a  man 
could  say — told  them  of  your  kind  feelings  towards  them — begged  them 
to  rescind  those  resolutions,  and  give  the  lie  to  Gen.  Wool's  statement, 
that  "  the  volunteers  were  inefficient  and  disobedient,  &c. "  I  made  a 
strong  appeal  to  them  privately  and  in  a  body.  Some  seemed  willing  to 
be  actuated  by  a  proper  motive;  but  when  the  command  was  given  "all 
who  wi&h  to  rescind  those  resolutions,  step  forward,"  no  one  stepped  from 
the  ranks.  It  seems  that  a  false  sense  of  shame  restrained  them. 

I  told  them  that  my  duty  was  at  an  end,  and  that  I  could  do  nothing 
more.  They  still  stood  in  their  ranks,  and  I  had  a  discussion  with  a  Mr. 
Smith  ******* 

*********** 

****** 

Stil  they  persisted  in  their  original  intention,  and  I  then  knew  that 

nothing  more  could  be  done,  and  dropped  the  subject. 

*  *  *  *  *  * 

*  *  *  *  *  * 

*  *  *  *  *  '  * 

*  *  *  *  ,    *  * 
I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Very  respectfully,  &c., 

(Signed,)  E.  C.  FITZHUGH, 

Aid,  &c. 


370 

[No.  304.] 


~ ~— -: •~1' T^ITT  T  T  VT'TT  AXf     "R  A  V        \KT       T'  ^ 

' ^3L'    X>HiljljlJMjrrlAM     JJA1  j       YT  .      A.,        I 

f  October  8th,  1856.         j 


Gov.   ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Commander-in-Chief  Volunteer  Forces : 

SIR  : — A  short  time  since,  I  received  the  muster  roll  of  Company  A, 
unattended  by  any  communication.  At  that  time,  I  was  under  the  im 
pression  that  it  had  been  forwarded  to  me  by  Lieut.  Neely,  and  wrote 
him  a  polite  note — a  copy  of  which  I  forwarded  to  Gen.  Tilton,  which  he 
will  show.  Enclosed,  you  will  receive  his  reply  to  the  same,  an  exact  copy 
of  which  I  send. 

You  will  perceive  that  he  puts  himself  out  of  the  way  to  renew  his 
gratuitous  insult  to  Gen.  Tilton,  by  referring  to  the  anonymous  letter, 
signed  "  Company  A." 

I  have  enclosed  his  letter  to  him  without  any  remarks.  The  muster 
roll  is  here,  subject  to  your  orders. 

I  remain,  very  respectfully,  &c., 
(Signed,)  E.  C.  FITZHUGH, 

Aid,  &c. 


[No.  305.] 

BE 

September  22,  1856 

Lieut.  D.  A.  NEELY, 

Seattle : 


BELLINGHAM  BAY,  W.  T., ) 


SIR  : — The  muster  roll  of  Company  A,  formerly  commanded  by  you, 
has  been  enclosed  to  me  at  this  place.  As  there  is  no  communication  with 
it  of  any  kind  or  description,  I  am  forced  to  conclude  that  it  was  sent  to 
me  by  you,  for  the  purpose  of  having  it  certified  -to,  in  order  to  make 
the  discharge  of  Company  A  legal,  and  of  some  effect.  I  have  to  say, 


371 

that  my  orders  now  are  the  same  as  they  were  when  I  read  them  to  you 
at  Seattle  some  time  since. 

Those  of  your  company,  who  have  taken  their  names  from  those  fa 
mous  resolutions,  addressed  to  the  Commander-in-Chief  of  the  volunteer 
forces  are  entitled  to  an  honorable  discharge,  and  it  will  give  me  pleasure 
to  certify  to  such  fact.  Those  who  have  not  done  so,  are  not  entitled  to 
such  discharge,  and  I  can't  give  it.  I  hope,  however,  upon  mature  con 
sideration,  you  all  have  determined  to  rescind  those  resolutions,  and  a  line 
from  you  to  that  effect,  will  accomplish  the  purpose  at  once.  I  will  then 
immediately  certify  your  muster  roll  and  send  it  to  head  quarters,  to  be 
put  on  file.  Without  this  is  done,  I  am  powerless  to  do  what  I  presume 
you  wish  to  be  done.  Be  so  good  as  to  write  me  by  return  mail,  and  I 
will  then  either  enclose  the  muster  roll  to  you  or  Gen.  Tilton. 
Truly  and  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 
(SignedJ  E.  0.  FITZHUGH, 

Aid,*  &c. 


[  No.  306.  ] 

FORT  L 

October  1st,  1856. 


FORT  LANDER,  W.  T.,  ) 


Col.    FlTZHUGH, 

2d  Reg't  W.  T.  V.: 

SIR  : — Your  letter  of  Sept.  the  22d,  came  to  hand.  You  say  you 
have  obtained  a  muster  roll  of  Company  A,  and  you  appear  to  be  at  a 
loss  as  there  was  no  communication  from  me  with  it.  It  was  not  sent  to 
you  by  me,  and  it  might  be  an  imposition  on  you  or  Company  A,  and 
you  can  make  yourself  easy  by  sending  it  as  near  its  proper  owner  as  pos 
sible. 

I  wish  you  to  bear  in  mind  the  letter  that  was  sent  to  General  Til- 
ton,  and  signed  Company  A. 

D.  A.  NEELY, 
Commanding  Co.  A. 


372 

NOTE. — The  letter  referred  to  is  the  one  which  accompanied  the  res 
olutions,  and  which,  previous  to  this  endorsement  by  Lieut.  Neely,  the 
commanding  officer  of  Company  A,  had  been  considered  anonymous. 

In  virtue,  however,  of  this  endorsement,  it  became  a  part  and  parcel 
of  the  same  transaction  with  the  resolutions. 


[No.  307.] 

HIGHLAND,  W.  T.,  Nov.  13th,  1855, 

Acting-Governor  C.  EL  MASON, 

Olympia,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — I  have  deemed  it  my  duty  to  keep  a  diligent  watch  in  this 
portion  of  the  Territory.  Yesterday  a  party  of  Scouts,  under  charge  of 
2d  Lieut.  Roundtree,  were  out  up  the  Newacum  five  or  six  miles  east  of 
my  place  and  east  of  the  meridian  line,  where  they  found  a  considerable 
Indian  trail,  along  which  from  six  to  seven  horses  had  traveled  that  morn 
ing  in  the  direction  of  the  Klickatat  country,  or  Upper  Cowlitz,  (none  of 
our  Indians  had  passed  that  way.)  Just  before  finding  said  trail  Lieut. 
Roundtree  met  a  Klickatat  Indian  who  said  there  was  no  trail  in  that  di 
rection,  and  seemed  to  be  anxious  that  the  party  should  proceed  no  fur 
ther. 

I  have,  also,  sent  a  party  up  the  Cowlitz  to  the  Klickatat  prairie,  to 
bring  away  two  of  my  company  who  reside  there,  and  also,  to  take  obser 
vation.  I  have  also,  stationed  a  party  on  the  trail  south  of  the  Cowlitz 
river,  leading  from  Klickatat  to  Lewis  river  pass. 

I  shall  keep  parties  out  on  these  trails  every  day.  I  should  have 
mentioned  above,  that  the  trail  found  by  Lieut.  Roundtree  has  been  im 
proved  by  Indians  within  the  last  three  months  by  blazing  and  cutting 
logs  and  brush  out  of  the  way,  a  thing  which  you  are  aware  they  seldom 
do,  and  this  improved  trail  has  not  been  known  to  any.  of  us  before. 

Herewith  I  send  you  the  muster  roll  of  my  company,  the  "  Lewis 
County  Rangers." 

I  ain,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

JOHN  R.  JACKSON, 

Captain. 


373 

j>To.  308.] 

"  'Lti    ' 

OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V., ) 
Olympia,  April  3d,  1856.         ) 

j  '1 

Lieut.  Col.  CJSOSBIE, 

Aid  to  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief  : 

SIR  : — You  will  proceed  to  Lewis  county,  and  organize  a  company  of 
volunteers,  direct  them  to  erect  two  or  more  block  houses,  and  range  the 
country  in  the  vicinity  of  Lewis 'river  pass,  and  elsewhere  when  required, 
after  leaving  sufficient  garrisons  at  the  block  houses. 

The   object  of  the  ranging  to  be  mainly  for  the  due  protection  of 

such  of  the  farmers  as  may  propose  remaining  upon  their  claims,  or  are 

putting  in  a  crop,  and  making  scouts  to  the  Klickatat  prairie,  and  heads 

*  of  the  Cowlitz  and  Lewis  rivers,  &c.,  &c.     The  block  house  should  be  at 

the  Cowlitz  Landing,  another  at  the  forks  of  the  Cowlitz. 

Confer  with  Capt.  John  R.  Jackson  relative  to  strengthening  his 
house  to  answer  as  a  block  house. 

Report  to  this  office  as  frequently  as  possible,  and,  if  necessary,  or 
ganize  two  companies;  one  from  the  Cowlitz  Farms,  and  the  other  to  ren 
dezvous  either  at  the  Landing  or  at  Highland  post-office. 

Examine  into  the  condition  of  the  Indians  at  Plomandau's  reserva 
tion,  and  if  they  are  found  to  obtain  liquor  from  any  source,  take  any 
measures  you  may  choose  to  abate  this  most  dangerous  practice. 
Very  respectfully,  <fcc., 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adj't  Gen.  W.  T.  V. 


£  No.  309.  ] 

•*-••'-,     •  <v'i^1'  bifl/        i"  T    "' 

COWLITZ   LANDING, 

April  5th,  1856. 

Adj't  General  JAMES  TILTON, 

Washington  Territory  Volunteers,  Olympia  : 
SIR  : — Agreeably  to  instructions,  I  have  this  day  organized  and  mus- 


374 

tered  into  the  [service  of  the]  Territory  of  Washington  a  company  of 
volunteers  in  Lewis  county. 

The  company  is  at  present  67  strong,  and  will  most  probably  be  in 
creased  to  eighty.  I  forward  herewith  the  names  of  the  officers  and  pri 
vates. 

I  request  that  blank  muster  rolls  be  sent  by  the  express.  Much  dis 
satisfaction  has  existed  in  this  county,  both  amongst  the  Canadian  settlers 
and  the  Americans.  That  of  the  Canadians  has  been  removed  by  bestow 
ing  upon  the  Lieutenants  of  the  company  under  command  of  Captain 
Peers,  their  commissions,  and  informing  them  that  it  had  been  recognized, 
and  the  discharges  of  the  men  as  proof  of  service,  would  be  remitted  at 
as  early  a  day  as  practicable. 

I  desire  that  they  be  sent  me  immediately.  That  of  the  Americans 
still  exists,  owing  to  the  negligence  of  Capt.  J.  R.  Jackson.  All  of  the 
men  attached  to  his  company  furnished,  not  only  their  horses  and  equip 
ments,  but  even  their  own  supplies,  for  which  no  allowance  has  been 
made. 

I  have  directed  the  late  1st  Lieutenant  Jackson  Barton,  to  address 
you  on  the  subject,  so  that  a  remedy  may  be  applied. 

There  should  be  an  assistant  quartermaster  at  this  place.  I  recom 
mend  C.  C.  Pagett  be  appointed  as  such,  with  the  rank  and  emoluments 
of  a  Captain  of  cavalry. 

I  also  recommend  the  appointment  of  Dr.  U.  G.  Warbass  as  an  as 
sistant  surgeon.  It  is  absolutely  necessary  that  there  should  be  one  at 
tached  to  the  company,  as  it  is  my  intention  to  order  the  company  imme 
diately  on  the  completion  of  the  block  houses  to  make  a  scout  on  the 
Klickatat  prairie,  and  in  the  neighborhood  of  the  Lewis  river  pass. 

I  shall  enclose  the  large  house  at  this  place  heretofore  used  as  a  tav 
ern,  with  pickets  ten  and  twelve  feet  high,  with  bastions  at  diagonal  cor 
ners.  It  will  serve  as  a  depot  for  quartermaster's  stores,  and  also  afford, 
in  case  of  an  emergency,  protection  for  the  families  of  the  neighborhood. 

There  is  no  necessity  for  a  block  house  at  the  forks  of  the  Cowlitz, 
inasmuch  as  the  settlers  are  already  building  one  at  Caghill's,  four  miles 
below.  Where  else  it  may  be  requisite  to  establish  block  houses,  I  have 
not  as  yet  determined. 

I  shall  despatch  Lt.  Anderson,  the  First  Lieut,  of  the  Lewis  county 
Rangers,  with  an  order  on  the  quartermaster  at  Yancouver  for  supplies, 
more  particularly  ammunition. 

There  is  a  great  scarcity  of  muskets  and  percussion  caps.  I  brought 
over  a  small  package,  but  on  counting,  there  was  but  168. 

It  would  be  well  to  send  by  the  express  2,500. 


375 

On  Monday,  I  shall  endeavor  to  make  an  arrangement  for  improving 
and  bridging  the  Cowlitz  trail. 

I  request  that  the  commissions  for  the  officers  of  the  company  and 
also  those  of  assistant  quartermaster  and  surgeon,  be  forwarded  immedi 
ately. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

HENRY  R.  CROSBIE, 
.  Lt.  Col.  and  Aid-de-Camp. 


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[  No.  310:] 

EXECUTIVE  Oi 

Olympia,  April  5th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  } 


rt   aoiFSBOCJfffl  *te0£ttlfi  KI  3l  .!  'ifxul  J;0  Hj;*J*jri  •'*;;;  iDlw'nTTOi     ;  ;'}  ,1»>>i7 

Lieut.  Col.  CROSBIE, 

Aid-de-Camp,  &c.,  Cowlitz  Landing  : 

SIR  : — Supplies  and  transportation  for  the  company  raised  in  Lewis 
county  will  be  furnished  by  Col.  Hurd,  quartermaster  'and  commissary. 
He  has,  under  the  Quartermaster  and  Commissary  General,  general  charge 
of  the  purchasing  and  forwarding  of  supplies  from  the  Cowlitz  to  Olym 
pia,  and  it  is  indispensable  that,  in  supplying  the  Lewis  county  company, 
there  be  no  interferenae  with  his  operations  which  will  be  accomplished 
by  his  being  the  quartermaster  and  commissary  for  that  region. 

Capt.  Hurd  will  see  you,  and  receive  from  you  the  necessary  instruc 
tions  as  to  the  supplies  required  for  the  Lewis  county  company. 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
'  (Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEYENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


376 
[  No.  311.] 


COWLITZ  LANDING,         ) 
April  8,  1856.     j 


Adj't  Gen,  JAMES  TILTON, 

W.  T.  V.,  Olympia  : 

gIR  :_~j  have  got  out  the  timber  for  the  pickets  and  bastions  of  the 
fort  at  this  place.  I  trust,  by  active  exertions,  to  complete  it  within  a 
week. 

I  shall  build  a  ferry  boat  for  the  crossing  of  the  Cowlitz  here,  and 
perhaps  another  at  the  forks,  in  which  case,  I  shall  strengthen  Gardner's 
house  and  garrison  it  with  five  men. 

I  have  deemed  it  better  than  opening  and  bridging  the  trail  on  this 
side.  There  is  a  traveled  wagon  road  from  the  Landing  to  the  forks.  It 
would  cost  much  less,  be  quicker  done,  and  the  route  is  the  shorter.  Ma 
ny  of  the  Cowlitz  Indians,  much  to  the  dissatisfaction  of  the  whites,  have 
been  in  the  habit  of  wandering  off  from  the  reservation,  giving  as  an  ex 
cuse  when  met  on  the  road,  that  they  were  out  looking  after  their  horses 
left  at  the  Kliekatat  prairie.  I  therefore  dispatched  Lieut.  Balisti,  Lewis 
county  Rangers,  with  five  men,  to  make  a  scout  in  that  direction,  and  to 
bring  in  the  Indian  horses.  He  will  most  probably  return  to-morrow. 

I  would  call  the  attention  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief 
to  the  fact  of  the  inhabitants  of  Rainier  forbidding  the  express  canoes  to 
visit  that  town  with  an  Indian  on  board.  As  it  is  almost  impossible  to 
obtain  whites  to  work  the  canoes,  it  is  much  to  be  apprehended  that  great 
inconvenience,  perhaps  difficulty,  may  be  occasioned  by  inconsiderateness. 

Very  little  reliance  is  to  be  placed  on  the  Cowlitz  band.     An  ill-timed 
act  of  violence  might  be  productive  of  the  most  serious  consequences. 
I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

HENRY  R.  CROSBIB, 
0  Lieut.  Col.,  and  Aid-de-Camp. 


(.No.  312.] 

Cow 

June  2d,  1856. 


COWLITZ  LANDING, 


Gor.  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Com.-in-Chief  W.  T.  Volunteers,  Olympia: 

SIB:—  *  *  *•  * 


377 

*  *  *  *  * 

Ten  men  and  myself  have  gone  on  a  scenting  party 
to  the  Klickitat  prairie. 

We  are  cutting  a  road  from  "  Pain  Court,"  a  settlement  east  of  J. 
R.  Jackson's,  and  will  finish  it  in  another  week. 

There  is  a  trail  from  Jackson's  connecting  with  it;  also,  a  wagon 
road  from  Cowlitz  river.  It  will  be  much  shorter  than  the  old  trail. 

E.  D.  WARBASS, 
Captain  Company  L,  W.  T.  Y. 


[No.  313.] 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 
Olympia,  May  21st.,  1856.         ) 


Lieut.  Col.  S.,  S.  FORD, 

Aid-de-Carnp,  &c.: 

SIR:— 

*  *  *  * 

*  #  *  * 

*  *  * , 

'i/->f    f\^>  »•  i/t^ 

1.  Divide  Capt.  Warbass'  company  into  an  active  and  reserved  list. 
The  active  list  to  consist  of  forty  men  to  be  selected  from  those  not  hav 
ing  families,  to-  be  constantly  engaged  in  scouting  the  country.     It  will 
require  one  Lieutenant,  two  Sergeants,  and  two  Corporals.     The  number 
may  be  got  by  calling  for  volunteers. 

2.  The  reserved  list  to  be  employed  only  in  case  of  an  emergency. 
They  will  assemble  at  the  call  of  the   Captain.     They  will  have  neither 
pay  nor  rations,  except  when  on  duty.     The  Captain  will  see  that  a  care 
ful  record  is  kept  of  the   details  for  duty  of  his  company.     He  should 
state  exactly  how  many  days   a  member  has  been  on  duty — how  many 
days  he  has  been  on  his  farm,  or  attending  to  his  own  business. 

3.  The  men  on  the  reserved  list  will  be  provided  with  ammunition 
and  caps,  and  should  assemble  for  inspection  once  a  week.     The  day  of 
inspection  they  will  be  considered  to  be  on  duty. 

47  ,.4  J 


4.  You  will  see  personally  to  this  matter,  and  report  to  me  the 
names  of  the  men  on  the  active  and  on  the  reserved  list.     You  will  give 
orders  to  the  commissary  to  furnish  rations  only  to  the  men  on  duty. 

5.  You  will  start  Pierre  Charles 'on  a  scout  as  soon  as  possible. 

6.  The  guns  will  be  returned  to   Plomandeau.     The  locks  will  be 
taken  off  and  placed  in  charge  of  Captain  Warbass. 

T.     The  two  prisoners  had  better  be  taken  by  you  to  the  Chehalis, 
for  a  period. 

8.  It  is  indispensable  that  cordial  relations  should  exist  between  the 
citizens  and  the  Indian  and  military  authorities  to  prevent  trouble,  and 
perhaps  an  outbreak  of  the  Indians. 

9.  There  should  be  defences  at  Jackson's,  at  the  earliest  practicable 
period. 

I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Gov.  and  Cemmander-m-Chief. 


[No.  314.] 

OHKE 

May  26,  1856. 


CHEHALIS,  W.  T.,         ) 


Gov.   ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Commander-in-Chief  Volunteer  Forces : 

SIR  :— 

*  *  *  *  *  * 

*  *  *  *  #  * 

Capt.  Pierre  Charles  started  on  a  scout  on  Tuesday  last,  with  ten  In 
dians,,  intending  to  go  to  where  the  trails  diverge  from  the  head  waters 
of  the  Cowlitz  towards  the  Columbia,  Yakima  and  Nesqually  rivers,  but, 
on  reaching  the  Klickatat  prairie,  they  discovered  one  camp  of  Indians, 
seven  in  number.  One  of  Capt.  P.'s  men  approached,  knew  them,  and 
explained  to  them  the  object  of  the  visit  to  that  place.  He  replied  that 
they  had  come  down  from  the  mountains  to  find  their  people  and  friends, 
and  were  glad  to  find  them.  They  readily  complied  with  the  request  of 
Capt.  P.,  and  he  brought  them  down.  They  were  rather  hard  looking  fel- 


379 

lows,  and  had  never  seen  white  men  before.     Pierre  Charles  will  start 
this  morning  for  the  upper  Cowlitz  with  a  scouting  party. 

I  have  also  ordered  Capt.  Warbass  immediately  to  open  the  trail  to 
the  Klickatat  prairie,  and  push  forward  the  men  and  supplies,  and  con 
struct  a  block  house  without  delay,  and  also  to  send  a  sufficient  number 
of  men  to  speedily  complete  the  defences  at  Jackson's. 

In  regard  to  Capt.  Warbass'  company,  I  at  once  pursued  the  course 
indicated  by  you  of  dividing  the  Company  into  an  active  and  reserved 
list,  and  it  took  admirably  well.  An  active  and  reserved  list  is  just 
what  is  wanted.  Every  man  remained  in  the  company,  excepting  three 
— two  of  these  took  a  dishonorable  discharge.  I  enclose  herewith  the 
two  lists. 

I  do  not  apprehend  any  more  trouble  hereafter.     I  endeavored  to 
"'  impress  upon  them  the  great  necessity  of  being  united  at  this  time. 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,)  8.  S.  FORD, 

Lieut.  Col.  and  Aid-de-Camp. 


[No.  315.] 

COWLITZ  LANDING,          ) 
June  30th,  1856.    ) 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V.: 

gIB : —  *  *  *  I  am 

now  finishing  the  block  house  on  the  Klickitat  prairie,  and  will,  with  a 
little  leisure,  send  you  some  topographical  ideas  relative  to  the  country 
east  of  the  Cowlitz. 

I  will  be  ready  for  any  emergency  in  regard  to  the  enemy,  although 
we  are  ill  provided  with  the  requisites  for  a  forced  march  in  consequence 
of  the  quartermaster  not  furnishing  sugar,  coffee,  and  steel  iron  for  shoes 
for  the  company  horses. 

Respectfully  yours,  &c., 

E.  D.  WARBASS, 
Captain  Commanding  Co.  L,  W.  T.  V. 


380 

[No.  316.] 

COWLJTZ  PRAIRIE,  July  llth,  1856. 

Gov.  I.  I.  STEVENS, 

Commander-m-  Chief : 

SIR  : — On  yesterday  I  returned  from  a  scout  up  the  Cowlitz  river, 
with  a  party  of  friendly  Indians  from  Mr.  Plomondeau's  reservation. 

I  proceeded,  on  the  first  of  this  month  to  the  Clickatat  prairie,  and 
thence  to  Tuni  Water,  about  twenty  miles  above  the  "prairie,  and  was  un 
able  to  find  any  traces  of  hostile  Indians, .  k  ^ 

At  Turn  Water  I  found  only  one  old  man,  an  old  woman  and  a  boy. 
All  the  Indians  I  had  with  me  proved  themselves  very  good  men,  and 
readily  obeyed  any  commands  I  gave  them.  If  you  have  any  other  busi 
ness  you  wish  ine  to  attend  to,  hope  you  will  write  and  inform  what  it  is. 

I  wish  to  know,  that  if  I  am  sent  out  again,  how  I  am  to  get  arms 
.for  my  Indians,  as  I  had  some  difficulty  in  getting  arms  for  them  on  my 
last  trip.  Capt.  Warbass  only  furnished  me  with^  two,  and  was  obliged 
to  furnish  the  others  myself. 

Very  respectfully,  &c., 

PIERCHALL. 


[No.  317.] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,  ) 
Olympia,  Oct.  14th,  1855.          ) 

{  ,&»lKHftAJ    mrW>O 

To  the  COMMANDING  OFFICER, 

Clarke  County  Volunteers  : 

SIR  : — The  company  of  volunteers  of  which  you  are  the  commanding 
officer,  are  directed  by  the  proclamation  to  report  to  the  commanding  offi 
cer  of  the  military  post  at  Fort  Vancouver. 

The  system  of  enrollment  which  has  been  adopted  here,  and  which 

/  .    •  J  t  *  .*  ^  t 

you  are  desired  to  adopt,  is  "for  three  months,  or  during  the  war. " 

Arms,  ammunition,  accoutrements,  supplies,  &c..,  will,  as  far  as  pos 
sible,  be  furnished  by  the  commanding  officer  at  the  military  post. 

Transportation  and  subsistence  will  be  supplied  by  the  U.  S.  Quar 
termaster  and  Commissary. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

C.  H.  MASON, 
Acting-Governor,  W.  T. 


381 

[  No.  318.  J 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  Co.  A, 

October  15th,  1855. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  Co.  A,  VANCOUVER  VOLUNTEERS,  ) 


To  His  Excellency,  C.  H.  MASON, 

Acting-Governor  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — A  company  of  fifty  men,  citizens  of  Vancouver  and  its  vicin 
ity  organized  at  this  place  on  the  evening  of  the  12th  inst.  The  company 
elected  their  Captain,  1st  and  2d  Lieutenants,  leaving  the  appointment 
of  non-commissioned  officers  with  the  Captain.  On  the  13th,  the  com 
pany  was  armed  and  equipped  from  the  military  store  at  Vancouver,  and 
sixty  rounds  of  ball  cartridges  issued  to  each  man. 
The  officers  elected  are— 

William  Kelly,  Captain. 
Patrick  Akem,  1st  Lieutenant. 
Geo.  W.  Martin,  2d  Lieutenant. 

The  arms  received  were  fifty  IT.  S.  percussion  muskets  and  bayonets, 
find  25  cavalry  pistols. 

The  company  was  organized  for  home  defence,  the  citizens  deeming 
the  magazines,  arms,  and  military  stores,  ar.d  the  removal  of  the  troops 
from  this  post,  a  sufficient  inducement  for  Indians  to  make  an  attack  on 
the  place. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

WILLIAM  KELLY, 
Capt  Vancouver  Volunteers. 


[  No.  319.  ] 

EXECUTIVE  ( 

OLYMPIA,  Oct.  20,    1855. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 


WM,  KELLY,  Esq., 

Vancouver,  W.  T.: 

Sift  :— I  received  by  yesterday's  mail  of  Oct.  llth,  a  letter  enclosing 
a  copy  of  a  recommendation  of  certain  gentlemen  of  Vancouver  in  your 


382 

favor,  and  of  October  15th,  informing  me  that  a  volunteer  company  had 
been  formed  at  Vancouver  for  home  defence. 

On  the  receipt  of  the  requisition  of  Major  Raines,  proclamation  was 
made  for  two  companies  of  volunteers,  one  to  be  enrolled  at  Vancouver, 
and  the  other  at  Olympia,  both  being  intended  to  take  the  field.  The 
company  here  has  been  enrolled,  and  started  to-day  for  Fort  Steilacoom 
to  co-operate  with  the  regular  troops  moving  from  there. 

When  information  was  received  yesterday  that  Major  Haller  had  re 
turned  to  the  Dalles,  it  was  determined  to  make  a  call  upon  certain  coun 
ties,  Clarke  among  the  number,  for  more  companies  not  to  take  the  field, 
except  upon  emergency,  but  simply  to  organize  for  home  defence. 

I  am  ready  to  accept  the  service  tendered.  The  term  of  enlistment 
which  has  been  adopted  here,  has  been  "  for  three  months,  or  during  the 
war."  I  will  suggest  that  you  raise,  if  possible,  the  number  of  your  com 
pany  to  the  standard  mentioned  in  the  proclamation,  have  them  regularly 
.enrolled,  and  transmit  a  copy  of  the  muster  roll  to  this  office. 

Whenever  they  are  organized,  and  ready  to  co-operate  with  the 
troops  of  the  United  States,  arms,  ammunition,  transportation,  &c.,  will 
at  once  be  furnished  by  the  quartermaster  at  Fort  Vancouver. 

Yours,  respectfully, 

C.  H.  MASON, 
Acting-Governor,  W.  T. 


[  No.  320.  ] 

OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V.,   ) 
OLYMPIA,  Nov  10th,  1855.        ) 

Capt.    McCORKLE, 

Com'g  Company  G,  W.  T.  V.: 

SIR  : — Herewith  you  will  receive  your  commission  ,and  that  of  your 
officers. 

You  will  take  the  enclosed  form  of  military  oath,  and  cause  the  same 
to  be  administered  to  all  the  officers,  non-commissioned  officers,  and  pri 
vates  of  your  company,  as  none  will  be  received  in  the  service  who  do 
not  comply  with  this  legal  requirement.  This  will  be  taken  before  any 
magistrate,  '/.>*J{ 


388 

• 

Your  duty  will  be  to  guard  the  country  west  of  the  Lewis  river 
pass  of  the  Cascade  mountains,  and  intercept  communication  between  the 
hostile  Indians  and  those  who  may  be  friendly  or  wavering. 

Any  suspected  savages  you  will  send  bound  to  Fort  Vancouver,  and 
endeavor  to  prevent  any  acts  which  may  have  a  tendency  to-  cause  any 
savages  who  may  be  friendly  from  joining  the  enemy. 

Report  your  movements,  and  all  information  you  may  obtain  to  this 
office  as  frequently  as  possible. 

(Signed,)  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adj't.  Gen.  W.  T.  Volunteers. 
By  order  of  the  Acting-Governor. 


[  No.  321.  ] 

MoNTicaLLo,  W.  T,;  Nov.  19th,  1855. 

Acting-Governor,  C.  H.  MASON, 

Olympia  : 

SIR  : — Being  a  portion  of  our  duty  to  inform  you  of  our  movements, 
I  will  state  them  as  freely  as  possible.  Immediately  after  organizing  our 
company,  a  party  of  5  went  to  the  lake  lying  twenty-five  miles  to  the 
north,  and  near  the  east  fork  of  the  Cowlitz,  to  reconnoitre  that  part  of 
the  country,  more  to  quiet  the  fears  of  the  people  in  that  region  than 
from  any  apprehension  of  hostilities.  They  found  nothing. 

At  the  same  time,  a  party  of  15  proceeded  to  the  Lewis  river  pass, 
in  the  Cascade  mountains.  On  our  arrival  there,  we  sent  out  scouts  to 
learn  if  possible,  the  position  of  the  enemy.  They  saw  two  suspicious 
looking  Indians  in  the  Lewis  river  bottom,  who  made  their  escape  into 
the  bushes  and  crossed  the  river.  After  camping  at  the  pass  three  days 
and  learning  that  there  were  other  passes  more  practicable  and  shorter, 
we  marched  back  to  Challacha  prairie,  where  the  Indians  would  be  com 
pelled  to  pass,  it  being  only  eight  miles  from  the  pass.  We  remained  here 
about  three  weeks,  actively  scouting  the  whole  time,  but  seeing  no  Indi 
ans. 

*  *  *  *  *  * 


41 

384 

• 

After  receiving  the  commissions  of  the  officers  of  this  company,  we 
returned  immediately  to  this  place,  to  make  the  proper  arrangements  to 
guard  the  pass  with  more  certainty,  as  there  was  more  danger  apprehen 
ded  than  at  first,  as  Untal  and  his  party  had  escaped  from  Vancouver. 
It  is  said  his  intention  was  to  hold  a  council  of  war  at  Challacha  prairie, 
and  then  make  an  assault  upon  the  settlements.  Our  company  will  pro 
ceed  to  the  pass  on  Friday,  with  the  intention  of  finding  all  the  Indians 
in  that  vicinity  if  possible.  We  will  have  some  twenty  or  twenty-five 
men. 

W.  A.  S.  McCORKLE, 
Capt.  Co.  G,  W.  T.  Y. 


[  No.  322.  ] 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY, 

Olyinpia,  Nov.  26th,  1855.         j" 
J    i    »  '         m;j^    > 

Capt.    McCORKLE, 

Commanding  Company  G,: 

SIR  : — Your  letter,  dated  Nov.  23d,  is  received. 

In  reply  to  your  request  for  arms,  I  refer  you  to  Brigadier  General 
Gibbs  at  Fort  Vancouver,  who  will  supply  you  from  the  Territorial  arms 
now  at  Fort  Vancouver. 

With  regard  to  provisions,  you  must  obtain  them  from  any  source 
where  you  can  obtain  credit  for  the  U.  S.  Government.  Your  receipt  to 
the  holders  of  provisions  will  entitle  the  owner  to  the  amount  of  your  re 
ceipts,  whenever  the  government  pays,  by  appropriation,  for  the  expenses 

of  the  war. 

*  *  *  *  *  -  * 

-..,'• 
I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Very  respectfully,  &c., 

J.  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V. 
By  order  of  the  Acting-Governor. 


385 


[No.  323.] 

OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V., ) 
OLYMPU,  Dec.  1st.,  1855. 


Capt.  WM.  BRATTAX, 

Com'g.  Lev-is  River  Rangers  : 

SIR: — Herewith  you.  will  receive  a  commission  as  Captain  of  tbe 
company  you  report  as  having  been  organized  in  tho  vicinity  of  Lewu 
river  pass. 

r  .;.•  .  ' 

******  *  *  *  *  * 

Your  duty  will  be  to  watch  the  Lewis  river  pass,  and,  in  junction 
with  Capt.  McCorkle,  prevent  all  intercourse  between  the  hostile  and 
friendly  Indians.  You  can  obtain  arms  and  accoutrements  from  Briga 
dier  General  Gibbs  at  Fort  Vancouver,  by  receipting  to  him  for  the  num 
ber  you  make  requisition  for. 
Respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 

JAMES  TILTON, 
Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V. 
By  order  of  the  Acting-Governor. 


[No.  324.] 

FORT  VANCOUVER,  Nov.  10th,  1855.  - 

Maj.  G.  J.  RAINES, 

4th  Inf.  Com'g.  Colombia  River  District  : 

SIR  : — In  obedience  to  your  order,  the  company  of  Washington 
Mounted  Rifles,  mustered  into  the  service  of  the  United  States,  un 
der  iay  command,  hav3,  in  part,  arrived  at  this  place.  Owing  to  want  of 
transportation,  a  part  of  the  command  are  still  detained  at  the  Cascades, 
but  may  be  expected  here  to-morrow  or  the  day  after. 

You  speak  in  your  order  of  mustering  my  command  out  of  service. 

I  beg  to  suggest  that,  on  the  27th  day  of  October  last,  in  obedience  to  a 

proclamation  and  orders  received  from  Chas.  H.  Mason,  Acting- Governor 

of  Washington  Territory,  upon  a  call  made  by  yourself,  I  organized  a 

49 


386 

company  of  mounted  volunteers  to  serve  three  months,  or  until  discharged, 
and  on  the  same  day  the  company  were  mustered  into  the  service, 

It  was  understood  at  the  tune  we  were  mustered  in,  that  we  were 
not  to  be  discharged  under  three  months.  Upon  no  other  terms  could 
men  have  been  induced  to  leave  their  homes  and  business  at  the  present 
season  of  the  year. 

I  therefore  beg  to  submit — 

First. — That  my  command  can  only  be  disbanded  by  an  order  from 
the  authority  under  which  they  were  enlisted. 

Second. — That  having  been  mustered  into  service  nnder  the  enlist 
ment  for  three  mouths  from  the  27th  day  of  October,  1855,  we  cannot 
legally  be  mustered  out  until  the  expiration  of  that  period. 

I  make  these  suggestions,  not  from  any  desire  to  resist,  or  hesitation 
to  obey  any  lawful  order,  but  from  a  belief  that  justice  to  my  command 
and  a  proper  regard  for  the  authority  of  the  Actmg-Governor  of  the 
Territory  require  me  to  do  so 

I  also  desire  to  make  a  requisition  for  five  day's  provisions  for  my 
menr  and  forage  for  my  animals,  which  I  am  informed  by  the  commissary 

he  has  no  authority  to  grant  without  an  order  from  you. 

******** 

I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 

WM.  STRONG, 
Captain  Mounted  Rifles. 


[No.  325,] 

HEAD 

Fort  Vancouver,  Dec.  1 2th,  1855 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  COLUMBIA  RIVER  DISTRICT,  ) 


Capt.  WM..  STRONG,. 

Com'g.  Washington  Mounted  Rifles,  W.  T.  V.  : 
SIR  : —  I  am  directed   without  qualification  to  have  your  company 
mustered  out  of  the  service  of  the  United  States  by  the  Major  General 
Commanding  Department  of  the  Pacific,  I  presume  on  the  ground  that 


387 

the  arrival  of  Brevet  Major  Fitzgerald's  company  of  dragoons  render  the 
services  of  the  volunteers  no  longer  necessary  here.  Possibly  your  servi 
ces  may  be  wanted  by  Governor  Mason  at  Puget  Sound.  Please  send 
this  or  a  copy  to  him  at  once.  We  part  with  you  with  regret. 

Very  respectfully, 

G.  J.  RAINS, 
Brig.  Gen.  W.  T.  and  Major  U.  S.  A. 


[  No.  326.  ] 

VANCOUVER,  December  14th,  1855. 

Hon.  CHAS.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor  Washington  Territory : 

SIR  : — I  have  received  a  note  from  Brig.  Gen.  Rains,  (a  copy  of 
which  is  enclosed, )  by  which  you  will  see  that  there  is  a  probability  of  our 
being  mustered  out  of  service.  Our  company  are  ready  for  service,  and  I 
am  waiting  your  orders  to  perform  any  service  you  may  wish. 

I  wish  to  be  advised  of  your  method  of  obtaining  sustenance,  trans 
portation,  &a 

Respectfully, 

WM.  STRONG; 

Capt.  Com'g.  Washington  Mounted  Rifles. 


[No.  327.] 

FORT  VANCOUVER,  December  16th,  1855. 

Hon.  CHAS.  H.  MASON, 

Acting  Governor  Washington  Territory : 
******** 

I  sent  you  a  few  days  since  a  copy  of  a  correspondence  between  Maj. 


388 

Rains  and  myself,  in  reference  to  mustering  out  the  company.  Since  the 
last  news  from  the  Dalles  and  Walla  Walla,  that  the  Oregon  volunteers 
were  actually  fighting  the  Indians  iiear  Wailatpu,  the  order  to  muster  us 
out  has  been  countermanded,  and  we  may  again  be  sent  to  that  country. 
If  we  had  remained  at  the  Dalles,  we  would  have  been  at  hand  in  time  to 

have  been  of  some  service. 

*  *  *  #  *  *  * 

* 

Respectfully, 

WM.  STRONG, 
Capt.  Co.  A,  Mounted  Rifles,  W.  T.  Y. 


[No.  328.] 

OFFICE 

Olympia,  January  4th 


OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V., ) 

,  1856.      j 


tioa*M  .11  .sai')  .(roll 
Capt.  WM.  STRONG, 

Corn'g.  Co.  A,  W.  T.  Volunteers : 

SIR  : — Your  letters  of  the  14th  and  16th  December,  1855,  enclosing- 
copies  of  orders  from  Brig.  Gen.  Rains,  dated  December  12th,  and  your 
answer,  dated  November  10th,  to  a  previous  order  from  Gen.  Rains  are 
received. 

In  answer,  I  am  directed  by  Acting  Gov.  Mason  to  reply  : 
As  the  term  of  service  of  your  company  will  expire  on  the  27th  of 
the  present  month,  you  will  retain  the  organization  of  Company  "A,"  till 
then,  but  grant  discharges  or  furloughs  tc  any  of  your  men  who  may  de 
sire  them,  and  on  the  27th  January,  discharge  the  whole,  and  inform  them 

that  they  will  be  called  into  service  again  whenever  required. 

*  *  #  *  *  *  *  * 

As  you  will  have  earlier  communication  with  Gov.  Stevens  than  this 

w 

office  can,  you  may  perhaps  receive  from  himself  orders  based  npon  his 
plans  and  modifying  the  above. 

In  the  hope  that  such  may  be  the  case,  and  that  Comany  "A"  and 
its  gallant  officers  and  men  may  have  more  congenial  employment  in  its 
next  tour  of  duty, 

I  am,  sir,  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

JAMES  TILTON, 
Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V. 
By  order  of  the  Acting  Governor. 


389 


[No.  329,] 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  W.  1 
Olympia,  March  30th,  1856. 


1st  Lieut.  EUSTIS  HUGER, 

Acting  Adjutant,  &c. : 

SIR  : — If  the  savages  are  ravaging  Clarke  connty,  the  citizens  should 
adopt  the  block-house  system  of  Thurston  county,  wherever  there  is  a 
neighborhood  of  say  five  men  ;  they  and  their  families  will  be  safe  in  a 
good  block-house. 

Look  to  this  matter  and  do  all  you  can  to  prevent  the  citizens  all 
coming  in  to  Vancouver. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  Washington  Territory. 


* 
* 


[No.  330.] 


J    Of* 

J  no  Jbsnolt 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  W.  T.  VOLUNTEERS,  ) 
Olympia,  April  2d,  1856.      ) 

no  bar.    •• ;  noil  rtr.o  •jJ.-Jiii  ..'.•>  r.ni/il  Ot«  8H6S 


To  JM.  R.  HATHAWAY, 

Quartermaster  and  Commissary  : 

SIR  : — I  am  desired  by  Gov.  Stevens  to  express  his  approbation  of 
your  action  in  mustering  into  service  the  company  of  volunteers  raised  in 
Clarke  county,  and  also  in  furnishing  supplies  and  transportation  to  the 
volunteers  sent  forward  to  the  relief  of  the  Cascades. 

The  judgment,  energy  and  zeal  displayed  by  the  Quartermaster  de 
partment  at  Vancouver  in  meeting  promptly  so  unexpected  an  emergency, 
is  appreciated  as  it  deserves. 

The  date  of  enrollment  of  Capt.  Kelly's  company  will  be  that  of  your 
acceptance  of  its  services. 


390 

You  will  direct  that  officer  to  forward  his  muster  roll  to  the  Aujutant 
G-eneral. 

Yours,  most  respectfully, 
(Signed,)  HENRY  R.  CROSBIE, 

Lieut.  Col.  and  Aid-de-camp. 

P.  S.     The  commissions  of  Capt.  Kelly  and  officers  are  herewith 

enclosed. 

H.  R.  C. 


[No.  331.] 

VANCOUVER, 

April  3d,  1856 


VANCOUVER,  THURSDAY  MORNING,  ) 


His  Excellency,  I.  L  STEVENS, 

Governor  Washington  Territory  : 
gIR . *         ******* 

*  ******* 

Capt.  Wm.  Kelly  of  this  place  has  raised  a  company  of  82  men  for 
home  service  ;  but  they  are  not  willing  to  join  the  volunteer  service  unless 
they  are  promised  to  remain  in  this  town,  or  a  party  of  them  to  be  sta 
tioned  on  their  claims. 

They  are  willing  whenever  there  is  anything  for  them  to  do  in  this 
neighborhood  to  give  their  services,  and  when  it  is  finished,  they  be  al 
lowed  to  return  to  their  occupations. 

Now,  sir,  a  large  number  of  these  well  deserving  and  patriotic  citi 
zens  are  living  at  their  own  houses,  and  on  their  own  property,  and  are 
well  armed.  I  cannot  see  why  the  U.  S.  should  pay  and  support  them 
for  defending  their  own  homes,  when  they  say  it  is  impossible  for  them  to 
defend  others,  unless  it  is  as  one  of  the  oldest  citizens  of  this  place  said 
yesterday  when  urging  upon  me  to  muster  the  company — "  Some  of  the 

men  are  so  poor  they  will  starve  if  not  fed  by  the  Government." 

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  ** 

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  **. 

lyj[j:         ******* 

V.ery  truly  and  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,)  EUSTIS  HUGER. 


391 

[No.  332.] 

VANCOUVER,  W.  T.,  Thursday,  April  3d,  1856. 

.>T»fo«>  yrxfo  oi  -;  •>•!-.-  \f,  mi  ol  jrfa#/j.*r;jW 

JAMES  TILTON,  Esq., 

Adj.  General  W.  T.  V.,  Olympia  : 

SIR  :  —  I  wrote  to  the  Governor  this  morning  in  regard  to  Capt.  Kel 
ly's  company.  I  do  not  see  the  necessity  or  justice  of  enrolling  and  bring 
ing  into  the  service  a  company  who  are  not  subject  to  his  orders  ;  and  a 
large  majority  of  them  say  they  cannot  leave  this  place  on  any  account  as 
their  property  and  families  are  here. 

It  is  a  supposable  case  that  men  will  defend  their  property  if  they 
have  the  chance,  whether  in  the  U.  S.  service  or  not  ;  and  why  should  the 
U.  S.  feed  and  pay  them  for  it  ?  and  taking  all  things  in  consideration,  I 
have  not  received  the  company,  but  let  them  remain  as  they  are,  "Inde 
pendent." 


* 

•£kk)  oi 

* 

* 

* 

*              * 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

*             * 

* 

• 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

*             * 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

*             * 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

*             * 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

*             * 

* 

Yours,  very  truly, 

EUSTIS  HUGER, 


f  No.  333. 

OFFICE  j 

Olympia,  April  5th,  1856. 


OFFICE  ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  W.  T.  V., ) 


Lieut,  and  Adj't.  HUGER, 

SIR  : — Your  letter  from  Vancouver  is  received. 

The  exigency  of  the  case  makes  it  necessary  to  accept  men  to  the 
service,  provided  they  will  scout  and  defend  the  farmers  putting  in  crops 
in  Clarke  county. 

You  will  communicate  with  Capt.  Kelly  and  inform  him  that  his 
company  is  accepted,  under  the  condition  that  he  defend  the  county,  and 


392 

keep  at  least  one-half  of  his  men  employed  whilst  the  rest  are  putting  in 
crops. 

With  regard  to  any  man  who  will  not  agree  to  obey  orders,  and  who 
proposes  to  exercise  his  trade  in  the  village,  or  has  no  claim  to  cultivate, 
or  who  will  not  scout  or  go  upon  expedition,  he  will  not  be  mustered  in. 
The  intention  of  employment  of  the  company  of  Capt.  Kelly,  is  to  defend 
the  settlements  of  Clark©  county,  particularly  in  the  vicinity  of  Fort 
Vancouver. 

The  government  is  well  aware  that  the  country  has  been  well  drained 
of  its  available  men,  both  by  the  patriotic  enlistments  in  the  volunteer 
service,  and  by  employment  with  the  regulars  ;  consequently  nothing  but 
the  most  stringent  public  necessity  will  force  the  government  to  order 
them  out  from  the  vicinity  of  Fort  Vancouver,  or  unless  the  regular  forces 
there  are  so  augmented  as  to  guarantee  ample  protection  to  their  families. 

Direct  Capt.  Kelly  to  make  out  his  muster  and  descriptive  rolls,  and 
not  muster  in  any  man  whom  he  cannot  rely  upon  to  obey  a  reasonable 
order  for  scouting  duty,  or  to  march  for  a  reasonable  distance  from  home 

if  his  family  are  made  secure. 

******** 

Very  respectfully, 

JAMES  TILTON, 

(Signed,)  Adj't.  Gen.  W.  T.  V. 

By  order  of  the  Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[  No.  334.  ] 

EXECUTIVE  0 

Olympia,  April  6th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,  ) 


Capt.  R.  M.  HATHAWAY, 

Commissary  and  Quartermaster,  Vancouver,  W.  T. : 

SIR  : — Instructions  go  by  this  express  to  Lieut.  Huger  in  reference 
to  mustering  in  the  company  raised  in  Clarke  county. 

The  duty  of  that  company  will  be  to  protect  the  citizens  of  Clarke 
county,  but  the  condition  is  indispensable  that  they  be  mustered  into  ser 
vice  subject  to  the  orders  of  the  executive. 


393 


Lieut.  Huger  has  the  necessary  authority  in  thejpremises. 
Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Coniniander-m-Chief. 
:.  f  ,1 


ir.fi°i\3    /.;    'JnaT  fcirf*  to 


[No.  335.] 

VANCOUVER,  W.  T.,  April  6th,  1856. 

Capt.  WM.  KELLY, 

Com'g.  Co.  Clarke  County  Rangers  : 

SIR  :  —  Your  company  is  accepted  into  the  volunteer  service  of  the 
United  States  as  Mounted  Rangers,  to  date  from  first  organization. 

You  will  establish  block-houses  at  Washoogal  and  Lewis  rivers,  to 

enable  settlers  to  reside  on  their  claims,  and  keep  scouting  parties  ranging 

through  the  settlements  for  the  protection  of  the  citizens  of  Clarke  county. 

You  will  keep  at  least  one-half  of  your  men  employed,  whilst  the  rest 

are  putting  in  crops. 

Make  requsitions  on  the  Quartermaster  and  Commissary  at  this  post 
for  such  horses  and  supplies  as  you  may  need. 

Send  a  muster  and  description  roll  to  the  Adjutant  General's  office, 
and  report  your  progress  from  time  to  time  to  head  quarters. 

Respectfully,  sir, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  EFSTIS  HUGER, 

Adj't.  2d  Regiment  W.  T.  Volunteers. 
By  order  of  the  Gov.  and  Commander-in-chief. 

• 


60 


394 

[No.  336.] 

VANCOUVER,  W,  T.y  April  14th,  1856, 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  Y.: 

Sm : — Encloesd  I  send  you  copies  of  correspondence  between  Capt. 
Kelly  and  Lieut.  Biles,  in  regard  to  the  erection  of  the  block-houses  at 
the  Washoogal  and  Lewis  rivers  ;  also  a  copy  of  instructions  to  Capt. 
Kelly. 

As  soon  as  the  company  at  this  place  was  organized,  I  called  upon 
the  commanding  officer  at  Fort  Vancouver,  and  in  the  name  of  the  Gov 
ernor  of  this  Territory,  offered  to  co-operate  with  the  regular  forces  in 
protecting  the  citizens.  This  was  done  in  writing.  As  yet  my  communi 
cation  has  not  been  answered  officially. 

Col.  Morris  told  me  he  would  answer  it  after  he  talked  with  Col. 

Wright.    As  soon  as  it  is  done  copies  will  be  sent  to  your  office. 

******* 

*  *        The  site  selected  for  Fort  Riggs  is  a  very  good  one  and 

I  have  approved  of  it. 

Respectfully  yours, 
(Signed,)  EUSTIS  HUGER, 

Adj't.  2d  Reg't,  W.  T.  V. 


OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,  > 
OLYMHA,  March  30th,  1856.          f 

1st  Lieut.  EUSTIS  HUGER, 

Acting  Adjutant,  &c.  : 

SIR  : — If  the  savages"  are  ravaging  Clarke  county,  the  citizens  should 
adopt  the  block-house  system  of  Thurston  county.  Wherever  there  is  a 
neighborhood  of  say  five  men,  they  afld  their  families  will  be  safe  in  good 
block-houses. 


395 

Look  to  this  matter  and  do  everything  you  can  to  prevent  the  citi 
zens  all  coming  into  Vancouver. 

Yery  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Governor  Territory  Washington. 


[No.  337.] 

VANCOUVER,  W.  T.,  April  14th,  1856. 

JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General,  Olympia,  W.  T.: 

SIR  : — Enclosed  I  send  you  copies  of  correspondence  between  Capt. 
Kelly  and  Lieut.  Biles,  in  regard  to  the  erection  of  the  block-houses  at 
the  Washoogal  and  Lewis  rivers  ;  also  a  copy  of  instructions  to  Capt. 
Kelly. 

As  soon  as  the  company  at  this  place  was  organized,  I  called  upon 
the  commanding  officer  at  Fort  Vancover,  and  in  the  name  of  the  Gov 
ernor  of  this  Territory,  offered  to  co-operate  with  the  regular  forces  in 
protecting  the  citizens.  This  was  done  in  writing.  As  yet  my  communi 
cation  has  not  been  answered  officially. 

Col.  Morris  told  me  he  would  answer  it  after  he  talked  with  Col. 

Wright.     As  soon  as  it  is  done  copies  will  be  sent  to  your  office. 

*****  *** 

The  site  selected  for  Fort  Riggs  is  a  very  good,  one  and 
I  have  approved  of  it. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  EUSTIS  HUGER, 

Adjutant  2d  Reg>t 


396 
[No.  339.] 

Clarke  County,  W.  T.,  April  10th,  1856 


FORT  RIGGS,  WASHOOGAL  DISTRICT,      ) 


Capt.  WM.  KELLY, 

Com'g.  Clarke  Co.  Rangers,  &c.,  Vancouver  : 

SIR  : — In  pursuance  of  your  orders  dated  April  9th,  1856,  I  proceed 
ed  to  this  place  without  delay  and  have  complied  with  the  instructions 
therein. 

The  detachment  at  this  place,  now  consisting  of  eleven  men,  are  en 
gaged  in  scouting  the  neighborhood  and  examining  the  Indian  trails  or 
passes  through  Cape  Horn  mountain. 

*  I  find  that  every  member  is  more  or  less  engaged  in  farm 
ing,  consequently,  I  deemed  it  justice  to  them  that  they  should  have  the 
selection  of  the  point  for  the  erection  of  the  block-house,  (ordered  to  be 
built  by  the  Commander-in-chief,)  and  requested  a  report  of  their  action 
thereon.  The  following  is  their  verbal  report  : 

We,  the  farmers  of  Washoogal  District,  unanimously  agree  :  That 
the  block-house  ordered  to  be  built  by  His  Excellency  I.  I.  Stevens,  Gov. 
£c.,  Tor  the  protection  of  the  -fanners,  &c.,  in  said  district,  be  built  on  the 
land  claim  of  Col.  Ruben  R;frg;,,  near  the  bank  of  the  Columbia  river,  in 
Clarke  county,  and  that  the  same  be  known  as  "Fort  Biggs." 

I  have  to  say  that  the  point  selected  fully  merits  my  approbation. — 
Near  this  point  the  main  road  leading  from  Cascades  to  Vancouver  comes 
down  on  the  bottom  or  pasture  land,  and  the  many  trails  or  passes  strike 
this  road  within  a  mile  of  this  point.  It  is  generally  conceded  here  that 
should  the  Indians  contemplate  an  attack  in  the  neighborhood,  that  this 
point  woald  be  the  first  place  ;  it  i«  also  the  most  convenient  place  for  the 
farmers  to  concentrate  in  case  of  an  attack,  and  can  have  their  stock  so 
concentrated  that  with  a  howitzer,  could  protect  them  from  the  Indians. 

All  of  which  is  respectfully  submitted. 

(Signed,)  J.  D.  BILES, 

1st  Lieut.  Clarke  Co.  Rangers,  W.  T.  Y. 


397 

[No.  340.] 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  CLARKE  Co.  RANGERS,  W.  T.  V., ) 
Vancouver,  April  10th,  1856.  ) 

ORDERS  NO.  5. 

1st.  A  detachment  of  Clarke  Co.  Rangers,  consisting  of  members 
residing  in  the  neighborhood  of  4th  Plain,  is  hereby  detached  for  duty  in 
that  direction. 

2d.  Mr.  Richard  Covington  being  duly  elected  a  Sergeant  of  the 
detachment,  will  be  obeyed  and  respected  accordingly. 

3d.  Sergeant  Covington  will  proceed  with  his  command  as  soon  as 
possible  to  the  4th  Plain,  and  cause  a  site  to  be  selected  by  the  members 
of  his  command  for  the  erection  of  a  block-house,  for  the  defence  of  the 
settlement  in  that  vicinity.  The  site  should  be  at  a  respectable  distance 
from  the  woods  or  thickets,  and  at  a  point  where  water  can  be  easily  pro 
cured,  and  which  will  afford  the  greatest  security  to  the  men  while  tend 
ing  their  farms. 

"j   i  j'i  ' 

4th.     The  person  granting  the  site   should  be  requested  to  give  his 

consent  in  writing,  that  the  settlers  may  hold  the  building  as  long  as  the 
safety  of  the  settlements  require  it. 

5th.  "Until  the  house  is  built,  a  scouting  party  from  the  detachment, 
of  one  third  of  the  men,  will  be  sent  out  daily,  to  reconnoitre  the  country 
and  Indian  trails  in  the  direction  of  the  5th  Plain,  or  in  any  other  direc 
tion  that  may  be  deemed  necessary  by  Sergeant  Covington  ;  and  for  the 
safety  of  the  settlements,  as  well  as  that  of  the  detachment,  a  guard  will 
be  kept  up  during  the  night. 

6th.  All  Indians  found  in,  or  passing  through  the  settlements 
will  be  apprehended  (except  those  on  government  express,)  and  sent  in 
under  an  escort  to  these  head  quarters  ;  should  any  Indian  attempt  to  es 
cape,  he  will  be  fired  on. 

7th.  Should  the  enemy  appear  in  force,  or  there  be  appearances  of 
his  being  in  your  vicinity,  you  will  immediately  despatch  one  or  more  of 
your  trustiest  men  that  the  necessary  assistance  may  be  afforded  you  as 
soon  as  possible. 

(Signed,)  WM.  KELLY, 

Capt.  Clark  Co.  Rangers,  2d  Reg't.  W.  T.  Y. 

To  Sergeant  RICHARD  COVINGTON, 

Clark  Co.  Rangers,  W.  T.  Y.,  Vancouver,  W.  T. 


398 

[No.  341.] 

HEAD  Q 

Vancouver,  April  14,  1856 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  CLARKE  Co.  RANGERS,  ) 


Lieut.  J.  D.  BILES, 

Clarke  County  Rangers,  2d  Reg't.  W.  T.  Y.  : 

SIR  : — You  are  directed  to  proceed  as  soon  as  convenient  to  the  Lew 
is  River  District,  for  the  purpose  of  locating  a  block-house,  (to  be  built  by 
order  of  the  Gov.  and  Commander-in-chief.) 

You  will  consult  the  settlers  in  that  vicinity  as  to  the  most  suitable 
point  for  its  erection  ;  one  that  would  secure  the  most  protection  to  the 
farming  community  of  said  district. 

You  will  also  use  your  influence  to  have  the  settlers  there  join  the 
company,  on  terms  the  same  as  Washoogal  District  detachment. 

You  are  authorized  to  secure  as  many  men  as  you  can  get,  on  your 
way,  for  the  volunteer  service. 

You  will  report  to  head  quarters,  Vancouver,  at  the  earliest  period 
possible. 

(Signed,)  WM.  KELLY, 

Capt.  Clarke  Co.  Rangers,  2d  Reg't.  W.  T.  V. 


[No.  342.] 

2d  Reg't.  W".  T.  V.,  Vancouver,  April  14,  1856 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  CLARKE  Co.  RANGERS, 


EUSTIS  HUGER, 

1st  Lieut,  and  Adj't.  2d  Reg't.  W.  T.  V.,  Vancouver,  W.  T. : 
SIR  : — Enclosed  I  send  you  a  report  of  1st  Lieut.  J.  D.  Biles,  in  re 
lation  to  a  detachment  at  Washoogal  District,  *  *  * 
and  also  copy  of  an  order  to  him,  &c.,  &c.,  *  *  * 
*  *  The  present  strength  of  the  company  is  1  Captain,  1st  and 
2d  Lieutenant,  and  56  rank  and  file. 


399 

In  Washoogal  District  I  have  a  detachment  of  12  men. 

On  the  4th  Plain,  15     " 

At  Lackamas  Plain,  7     " 

At  Salmon  Creek,  6  miles  north  of  Vancouver,  6     " 

At  Vancouver,  (officers  and  me.n,)  19 

Total,  59 

The  men  at  Vancouver  are  standing  guard  every  other  night,  as  well 
as  scouting  in  the  neighborhood.  To-day  there  is  a  report  of  some  six 
armed  Indians  being  below,  about  twelve  miles  from  here.  I  send  a  par 
ty  after  them  this  morning  under  Lieut.  Aken.  To-morrow,  a  party  leave 
to  scout  twelve  miles  above  Vancouver  to  a  mountain  near  the  Columbia, 

where  Indians  are  supposed  to  be  concealed  as  spies. 

****** 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

WM.  KELLY, 
€)apt.  Clarke  Co..  Rangers,  2d  Reg't.  W.  T.  V. 


[No.  343.] 

LEWIS  RIVER,  CLARKE  COUNTY,  } 
April,  1856.         j 

Capt.  WM,  KELLY, 

Clarke  County  Rangers,  W.  T.  V.  : 

SIR  : — In  pursuance  to  your  orders  of  date  April  14,  1856,  I  pro 
ceeded  to  this  place,  and  to  fulfil  the  duty  assigned  me,  I  procured  the 
services  of  Messrs.  Lewis  and  Tappan  as  guides,  for  the  purpose  of  exam 
ining  the  country  in  this  district.  To-day  I  selected  a  point  for  the  loca 
tion  of  the  block-house. 

This  is  the  most  central,  and-  a  point  that  will  secure  the  most  pro 
tection  to  settlers,  being  a  good  pasture  and  range  around  it. 

The  settlers  with  the  exception  of  two  or  three,  have  left  their  claims 
and  gone  to  St.  Helens,  O.  T,,  for  safety.  I  would  suggest  that  you  send 
a  detachment  down  to  build  the  house,  and  scout  on  the  mountain  passes. 

All  of  which  is  respectfully  submitted. 

(Signed,)  J.  0.  BILES, 

1st  Lieut.  Clarke  Co.  Rangers,  2d  Reg't.  W.  T.  V. 


400 

[No.  344.] 

HEAD  QUARTERS,  CLARKE  COUNTY  RANGERS, 
VANCOUVER,  April  21st,  1856. 

ORDERS  NO.  6. 
J.  D.  BILES, 

1st  Lieut,  and  Acting  Adj't,,  2d  Reg't.  W.  T.  V.'T 
A  scouting  party  consisting  of  Capt.  Kelly,  1st  Lieut.  Biles,  2d  Lt. 
Aken  and  twenty  men,  will  proceed  to-morrow  morning,  via  Lewis  river, 
to  Cha-la-chie  Plain. 

The  party  will  take  rations  for  five  days,  at  the  expiration  of  which 
period  they  will  return  to  Vancouver. 

2d  Corporal  Dodd  will  proceed  this  morning  to  Lewis  river,  for  the 
purpose  of  engaging  the  ferry,  that  the  attendant  may  be  aware  of  the 
party  requiring  his  services. 

He  will  also  take  whatever  rations  may  be  required  to  Lewis  river 
for  the  party,  and  will  leave  for  St.  Helens  per  steamer  "Senorita." 
By  order. 

(Signed,)  WM.  KELLY, 

Capt.  Clarke  Co.  Rangers,  2d  Reg't.  W.  T.  V. 


[No.  345.] 

Vancouver,  W.  T.,  April  30,  1856. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  CLARKE  Co.  RANGERS,  | 


Major  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V.: 

SIR  : — Herewith  I  enclose  some  of  my  orders  and  reports  of  Lieut. 
J.  D.  Biles,  in  relation  to  the  defence  of  Clarke  county.  My  company  at 
present  numbers  seventy -four,  officers  and  men,  and  sixty-four  horses. 
They  are  distributed  as  follows  : 

Fourteen  detached  at  Washoogal  district.  The  fort  or  block-house 
is  built,  and  known  as  Fort  Riggs,  and  a  scouting  party  of  one-third  is 
sent  out  daily  to  reconnoitre  the  trails  on  the  mountains  of  Cape  Horn. 

Five  men  detached  at  Lackamas  prairie,  eight  miles  from  here,  who 
scout  on  the  trails  to  that  place. 


401 

Fifteen  men  at  4th  Plain,  commanded  by  Sergeant  Coving-ton.     They 
have  built  a  fort  with  a  block-house  bastion, 'and  with  a  small  pie< 
ordnance  could  defy  a  very  strong  force.     They  scout  on  the  trail  leading 
from  Cha-la-che  prairie,   which  is  the  principal  trail  to  Vancouver  from 
the  Indian  country. 

Seven  men  at  Salmon  creek.     They  have  built  a  stockade 
on  an  old  trail  leading  from  the  east  fork  of  Lewis  river. 

I  have  been  to  Che-la-che  prairie  with  a  party  of  twenty  - 
it  is  about  thirty  miles  from  the  Lewis  river  settlement.     There  was  no  in 
dication  of  Indians  being  in  that  direction,  though  rumor  had  it  that  there 
were  hiu  before  I  went  there.     There  was  also  some  two  hundred 
horses  supposed  to  be  there,  but  on  arriving,  I  found  only  four  two  year 
old  colts,  and  one  lame  horse  that  had  been  left  there  by  a  friendly  In 
last  fall. 

The  Che-la-che  prairie  is  an  important  point,  and  should  have  at  least 
fifty  men  stationed  there,  as  the  Indians  must  pass  that  point  to  come  into 
the  settlements,  and  if  they  should  by  chance  get  into  this  country,  a  par 
ty  there  could  check  their  retreat.  * 

*  *  *  * 

The  people  at  Lewis  river  were  nearly  all  away  from  their  claims, 
and  no  men  could  be  induced  to  volunteer  into  our  company. 

To-morrow  morning  a  detachment  of  fifteen  men  under  Lieut.  Biles, 
leaves  for  Lewis  river  to  build  a  block-house  at  that  place,  which  could 
not  possibly  be  done  before  in  consequence  of  the  material  that  composes 
my  company.  Nearly  all  are  married  men  and  farmers,  and  humanity  de 
manded  that  they  should  make  their  own  women  and  children  secure  be 
fore  they  could  be  called  away.  • 

Hoping  that  my  course  may  meet  the  approbation  of  his  Excellency 
the  Governor,  as  well  as  your  own, 

I  remain,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedien  servant, 
(Signed,)  WM.  KELLY 

Capt.  Clarke  Co.  Rangers,  2d  Reg't.  W.  T.  V. 


Di 


402 

[No.  346.] 

OFFICE  ADJ'T  GENERAL,  \V.  T.  Y.,    ) 
Olympia,  May  17th,  1856. 

Capt.  KELLY, 

SIR  : — A  requisition  is  this  day  made  upon  the  military  store  keeper 
for  four  howitzers  to  garrison  your  forfes  with  ;  also  for  two  hundred  rifles 
and  accoutrements,  with  the  necessary  ammunition,  &c. 

Should  this  requsition  be  honored,  you  will  receive  the  howitzers, 
plant  them,  and  arm  your  men  with  the  rifles,  leaving  the  muskets  in  your 
forts. 

Raise  your  command  to  eighty  effective  men,  ready  and  willing  to 
march  to  the  Walla  Walla  if  the  public  service  requires  it,  and  besides 
those  men  detail  say  from  8  to  15  men  to  garrison  the  forts  in  Clarke 
county. 

Confer  with  Col.  Hurd  relative  to  your  supplies,  and  keep  your  com 
pany  scouting  during  the  absence  from  Clarke  county  of  the  large  rein 
forcements  demanded  by  Col.  Wright. 

Any  responsibility  you  take,  having  for  its  view  the  good  of  the  ser 
vice,  and  warranted  by  the  reasonable  appearance  of  things,  will  be  fully 
sustained  by  this  department. 

The  Commander-in-chief  is  fully  determined  upon  the  most  active 
prosecution  of  the  war,  possible. 

Truly  and  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient,  » 

(Signed,)  JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjt.  Gen.  W.  T.  V. 

By  order  of  the  Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  CLARKE  Co.  RANGERS,  ) 
Vancouver,  May  19th,  1856,     ) 
JAMES  TILTON, 

Adjutant  General  W.  T.  V.: 

SIR  : — I  am  directed  by  Capt.  Kelly  (who  left  this  morning  with  a 
party  of  twelve  men  to  examine  the  several  Indian  trails  leading  towards 


403 

the  Cascade  mountains,)  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  communica 
tion  of  May  17th,  1856. 

****** 

Capt.  Kelly  desires  me  to  say  that  as  regards  the  raising  of  a  com 
pany  eighty  strong,  out  of  the  present  county  and  country,  that  would  be 
ready  and  willing  to  march  into  the  Walla  Walla  country,  cannot  be  done. 
Not  a  man  except  three  or  four  would  be  willing  to  march  out  of  Clarke 
county,  for  these  reasons  :  1st — That  about  one-half  of  our  citizens  of 
this  county  have  been  drawn  away  ;  and  2d — should  this  company  receive 
orders  to  march  out  of  the  county,  the  women  and  children  of  the  county 
would  be  exposed  to  the  murderous  acts  of  the  hostile  Indians. 
The  express  starts  this  moment. 

Truly  and  respectfully  yours, 
(Signed,)  J.  D.  BILES, 

1st  Lieut.  Clarke  Co.  Rangers,  2d  Reg>t.  W.  T.  V. 


i 
[No.  348.] 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  TERRITORY  WASHINGTON,  ) 


Olympia,  May  22d,  1856. 
Capt.  WM.  KELLY, 

Clarke  Co.  Rangers,  Vancouver,  W.  T. : 

SIR  : — You  are  directed  to  keep  a  careful  daily  record  of  the  men  on 
duty  and  those  not  on  duty  of  your  company. 

Men  not  on  duty  will  not  be  furnished  with  rations,  and  instructions 
will  go  to  the  Commissary  Department  to  that  effect  by  this  express. 

Truly  and  respectfully, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


[No.  349.] 

EXECUT 

Olympia,  May  29th,  1856 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  OLYMPIA,  W.  T., ) 


Capt.  WM.  KELLY, 

Clarke  Co.  Rangers  : 

SIR  : — Your  letter  of  the  25th  iiist.,  reached  me  by  express  on  the 
27th  iost. 


404 

The  order  in  regard  to  keeping  a  daily  record  of  the  men  on  duty  and 
not  on  duty,  and  to  give  rations  only  to  the  former,  was  not  dictated  from 
any  want  of  confidence  in  yourself  or  your  company,  but  from  the  neces 
sity  which  exists  that  the  Territory  should  be  able  to  show  a  fair  record, 
and  that  no  more  troops  were  employed  than  the  exigency  absolutely  de 
manded.  Every  citizen  is  interested  in  the  strictest  economy  being  ob 
served,  and  in  the  force  being  reduced  to'  the  smallest  number  compatible 
with  safety,  for  if  any  want  of  caution  can  be  shown,  it  may  defeat  alto 
gether,  appropriations  by  Congress. 

I  cannot  therefore  rescind  the  order,  but  must  direct  a  strict  compli 
ance  with  it. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief, 


[No.  -350.] 

-    0 

EXECUTIVE  ( 

Olynipia,  July  7th,  1856. 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  WASHINGTON  TERRITORY,  ) 


Capt.  WM.  KELLY, 

W.  T.  Volunteers,  Vancouver,  W.  T.  : 

SIR  : — You  will  report  by  return  express  the  names  of  the  twenty 
men  of  your  company,  you  have  been  authorized  to  retain  in  service. 

Should  you  find  it  impossible  to  get  twenty  men,  who  will  keep  con 
stantly  on  duty  and  obey  all  orders,  the  whole  company  will  be  disbanded, 
and  the  horses  and  company  property  turned  over  to  Capt.  Millard,  the 
Quartermaster  at  Vancouver. 

Capt.  Millard  will,  in  this  alternative,  receive  the  necessary  orders  to 
muster  you  out  of  the  service. 

I  am.  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 

ISAAC  I.  STEVENS, 
Gov.  and  Commander-in-Chief, 


405 

» 

{No.  351.] 

HEAD- 

Vancouver,  W.  T.,  July  9th,  1856 


HEAD  QUARTERS,  CLARKE  COUNTY,  RANGERS,  ) 


GOVERNOR: — I  received  your  order  of  July,  7th  inst.,  directing  me 
to  forward  you  the  names  of  the  men  that  I  have  been  authorized  to  re 
tain  in  the  service,  and  directing  me  to  disband  if  the  requisite  number  of 
men  could  not  be  retained  for  actual  service. 

In  reply,  I  would  recommend  that  the  company  be  disbanded,  in  con 
sequence  of  the  amount  of  farming  required  to  be  done  during  the  next 
month,  in  haying  and  harvesting  crops,  by  the  members  who  are  willing  to 
serve,  and  who  would  require  leave  of  absence  for  that  purpose,  and  who 
would  be  under  very  great  inconvenience  if  taken  away  from  this  neigh- 
hood. 

I  would  also  recommend  that  myself,  and  another  officer,  or  non 
commissioned  officer  of  the  company,  be  retained  until  the  25th  inst.,  that 
the  property  of  Washington  Territory  in  the  company,  at  several  points 
in  the  county  may  be  collected,  and  the  necessary  reports  and  returns 
made. 

I  have  issued  rations  before  the  receipt  of  your  order  to-day,  to  the 
29th  inst. 

I  enclose  you  this  correspondence  to  show  that  I  have  used  every  ex 
ertion  to  have  the  detachments  comply  with  instructions. 

*  *  *  *  * 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed,)  WM.  KELLY, 

Capt.  Clarke  Co.  Rangers,  2d  Reg't.  W.  T.  V. 


[Xo.  352.] 


EXECUTIVE  OFFICE,  W.  T., ) 
4,  1856.    J 


.  Olympia,  July  14, 

Capt.  WM.  KELLY, 

Vancouver,  W.  T. : 
SIR  : — Your  letter  of  July  9th  has  been  received,  and  in  compliance 


406 

• 

with  your  recommendation,  your  company  will  be  mustered  out  of  service, 
yourself  and  one  of  your  officers  being  retained  till  the  25th  inst.,  in  order 
to  prepare  the  necessary  papers. 

You  will  show  carefully  on  your  muster  rolls  the  period   each  man 
was  on  active  duty. 

Capt.  Millard,  Quartermaster  and  Commissary,  will  act  as  mustering 
officer.  , 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  most  obedient, 
(Signed,)  ISAAC  I.  STEVENS. 

Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief. 


I  N  D  E  X. 


INDEX. 


A. 

PAGE. 

ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  report  of,  25 

ALDEN,  Capt.,  Gen.  Tilton  to,  113 

to  General.Tilton,  113 

ARMS,  amount  of  received,  57 

"           issued,  57 

"           on  hand,  58 

B. 

BATTALION,  northern,  operations  of,  68,  72 

central,  *69,  72 

southern,                                                                                            ,  69,  72 

BELLINGHAM  BAY,  defence  of,                                                       ,  321 

BILES,  Lieut.  J.  D.,  to  Captain  Kelly,  396f  399 

Captain  Kelly  to,  398,  400 

to  General  Tilton,  402 

BLOCK  HOUSES—  54,  56 

BRATTON,  Captain,  General  Tilton  to;  385 

BURNS,  Dr.  M.  P.,  report  of,  46 

C. 

CAMPAIGN,  effect  of,  of  General  Rains  and  the  Oregon  volunteers,  64,  65 

CASEY,  Col.,  to  Gov.  Stevens,  as  to  general  operations,  198 

calls  for  volunteers,  200 

orders  Major  Garnet  to  occupy  Porters  Prairie,  204 

orders  Major  Garnet  to  join  Col.  Wright,  206 

reason  for  not  sending  troops  across  Nachess  Pass,  207 

as  to  Indians  encamped  at  his  post,  210,  213 

Statement  as  to  Indian  agent  refusing  to  receive  them,  '21. "> 


II  INDEX. 


PAGE. 


CASEY,  Col.,  declines  to  ai-rest  Indiau  murderers,  213,  21G 

as  to  authorising  Indians  to  leave  the  reservation,  218 

views  of,  as  to  treatment  of  Indians,  218 

CLARKE  COUNTY,  company  organized  in,  t  81 

block  houses  built  in,  81 

COMMISSION,  to  try  Indians,  77,  78 

COMPANY  A,  resolutions  ofr  3*65 

4 

COUNTRY,  state  of,  70,  71,  77,  79 

east  of  Cascades,  133-139 

Indians  in,  133 

plan  of  campaign  for,  136-139 

COVINGTON,  Sergeant,  Captain  Kelly  to,  397 

COWLITZ,  ferries  established  on,  78 

company  raised  at, "  78 

Landing,  wagon  road  to  Monticello,  78 

CRAIG,  Col.,  as  to  matters  in  the  interior, 

advised  by  the  Nez  Perces  not  to  return,  "89 

Governor  Stevens  to,  as  to  operations  in  the  interior,  254 

Col.  Shaw  to,  as  to  battle  of  Grand   Ronde,  266 

"        as  to  council  with  the  Nez  Perces,  267 

at  Walla  Walla,  269 

Governor  Stevens  to,        "             "  271 

Col.  Shaw  to,  as  to  division  among  the  chiefs,  272 

CROSBIE,  Col.  ft.  R.,  instructions  to,  238 

ordered  to  Seattle,  •        350 ' 

General  Tilton  to,  373 

report  of  to  Gen.  Tilton-,  '373-376 

Governor-Stevens  to,  375 

to  Capt.  Hathaway,  389 

CURRY,  Gov.  Geo.  L.,  Gov.  Stevens  to,  as  to  co-operation,-  97 

to  Gov.  Stevens  as  to  purchase  of  supplies,  98 

"              "     as  to  operations  at  Cascades,  98 


D- 


DALLES,  movement  of  troops  from,  83 

DAVIS,  Hon.  Jefferson,  declines  to  furnish  arms,  &c.r  61 

DELACY,  Capt.  W.  W.,  report  of  upon  wagon  route,  248 

DENN1SON,  Col.,  operations  at  Cascades,  '  99 

DENNY,  Lieut.,  Gen.  Tilton  to,                                        ^  359,  361 

to  Gen.  Tilton,  as  to  moving  from  Seattle,  360,  362 

suspended  from  command,  364 

DOUGLASS,  Governor,  letter  of  furnishing  supplies,  101,  102 

Governor  Mason  to,  103 


INDEX.  Ill 

PAGE. 


E. 


EATON,  Captain,  attack  upon,  183 

authorized  to  raise  rangers,  273 

orders  to  as  to  general  scouting,  274 

"     •  to  report  to  Captain  Malony,  277 

EBEY,  Capt.  I.  N.,  reports  organization  of  company,  and  his   views  relative  to 

lower  part  of  Sound,  311 

to  Tilton,  reports  "  Northern  Rangers"  organized,  312 

Tilton  to,  company  accepted,  guard  against  collision  with  friendly  Indians,     314 

to  Tliton,  his  command  on  Snohomish,  Pat  Kanim  at  his  camp,  315 
to  Tilton,  reports  even  phances  of  hostility  or  friendship,  of  the  Snoqual- 

mie  and  Skawamish  tribes,  315 
Tilton  to,  expedition  up  Snoqualmie  suspended,  keep  company  at  Port 

Townsend,  '  317 

Tilton  to,  ordered  to  garrison  block  house  at  Crescent  harbor,  317 

Stevens  to,  no  volunteers  except  for  6  months,  ordered  to  disband  co.,  319 

"    requested  to  raise  volunteer  in  Whatcom,  Island,  &c.,  319 

"    importance  of  posts  above  Snoqualmie  Falls,  322 

* 

EMIGRANTS,  order  in  reference  to  settlement  of,  'east  of  Cascades,  59 

rights  of,  as  to  settlement,        .  59,  60 

ENGINEERS,  report  of  Captain  of,  54 

F. 

FITZHUGH,  Lieut.  Col.,  reports  failure  to  bring  in  Te-i-as  and  Owhi's  people,  and 

.  the  causes  therefor,  339 

instructions  to,  as  to  Company  A,  367 

to  Governor  Stevens,              *  368,  370 

to  Lieut.  Neely,  370 

Lieut.  Neely  to,  371 

FORD,  Captain,  scout  of,                 ,                                                   »  73 

•'      Col.,  Governor  Stevens  to,  377 

to  Govereor  Stevens,  378 

FORT  STEILACOOM,  Captain  Sterrett  requested  to  send  men  to,  107 

Tilton,  force  at,  and  design  of,  78 

G. 

GANSEVOORT,  Captain,  letters  to,  110,111,112 

GENERAL  ORDERS,  No.  1,  33 

No.  2,  34 

"  A,  36 

','  "  B,  37 

No.  3,  38 

No.  4,  38 

"  "  supplement  to  No.  4,  40 

No.  5,  41 

No.  6,  47 

No.  7,  48 


IV  INDEX. 


PAGE. 


GOFP,  Captain,  91 

ordered  to  Walla  Walla,  243,247 

instructions  of,»as  to  operations  in  the  interior,  252,  254 

report  of,  of  battle  of  Burnt  river,  263 

GOSNELL,  Lieut.,  scout  of,  T3 

GOVERNOR,  message  of  ..  1 

GRAND  RONDE,  battle  of,  42 

report  of  killed  and  wounded  at,  4t> 


HALLER,  Major  G.  0.,  attack  upon,  ICO 

HATHAWAY,  Capt.  M.  R.,  Col.  Crosbie  to,  389 

Governor  Stevens  to,  392 

HAYS,  Major  G.,  69,  182,  185,  186,  187 

Captain  Keyes  to,  JS9 

orders  to  report  at  Port  Steilacoom,  274 

reports  fight  on  White  river,  276 

letter  from  Gov.  Mason  to,  277 

"  "  fight  on  Green  river,  278 

orders  to  march  to  Yelm,  281 

orders  for  movement  upon  Puyallup,  284 

"  for  march  to  Muckleshoof,  &c.,  285 

reports  Camp  Connell  proper  place  for  depot,  287 

suggestion  as  to  depot  at  Council's,  approved,  •^.  288 

reports  fight  of  ConnelFs  prairie,  290 

to,  expressing  gratification  as  to  his  operafions,  297 

reports  completion  of  block  house  on  White  river,  and  movements  of 

the  enemy,  298 
ordered  to  open  road  from  Fort  Hays  to  South  Prairie,  and  build  block 

house  there,  302 

is  advised  of  4Capt.  Maxon's  fight  near  the  "Pass,"  and  is  ordered  to 

move  towards  head  of  Nesqually,  and  open  roads,  &c.,  302 

HENNESS,  Capt.  B.  S.,  orders  to  Scout,  280 

HEWITT,  Capt.  C.  C.,  ordered  to  report  to  Capt.  Malony,  _                                          344 

to  Governor  Mason,  345 

Gen.  Tilton  to,  346 

HORSEMEN,  advantage  of,  on  Nachess  river,  79 

organization  of  at  Camp  Montgomeiy,  80 

HOWE,  Captain  S.  D.,  advances  up  the  Snoqualmie,  324 

report  of,  to  General  Tilton,  332 

HUGER,  Lieut.  E.,  ordered  to  inspect  the  route  from   Connellys  to  Snoqualmie 

Pass,  309 

Governor  Steven's  to,  389,  394 

to  Governor  Stevens,  390 

to  General  Tilton,  391,  394,  395 

Gen.  Tilton  to,  391 


INDEX. 


PAGE. 


HUGER,  Lieut.  Col.,  to  Captain  Kelly,  r.«J3 

Captain  Kelly  to,  398 

I- 

» 

INDIANS,  hostile,  east  of  Cascades,  64,  83 

west        "  72,  73 

head  quarters  of,  73 

Chehalis  and  Cowlitz,  73 

who  took  the  lead  in  the  war,  .74 

general  distrust  of,          .                                                                        .  74 

friendly,  number  of  on  the  Sound,  .      74 

defeated  at  White  river  and  Council's  prairie,  77 

brought  in  to  Seattle,  77 

"        "on  Puyallup  and  Nesqually,  77 

hostile  on  John  Day's  r^ver  to  be  struck,  84 

council  with,  88 

Governor  Steven's  propositions  to,  89 

Council  of  Col.  Steptoe  with,  89 

burn  the  grass  of  Col.  S.,  89,  90 

attack  Gov.  Steven's  party,  90,  91 

concerned  in  the  attack,  91 

hung  by  Col.  Wright.                                    .  166 

\ 

:.'.'        I. 

JACKSON,  Captain  J.  R,,  to  Governor  Mason,  372 

K. 

KAMIAKAN,  urges  Spokanes  to  join  the  war,  83 

in  council  with  Governor  Stevens,  89 

success  of,  in  creating  disaffection,                                        i  92 

to  be  dreaded.                                            •  159 

KELLY,  Captain.W.,  Governor  Mason  to.  380,  381 

to  Governor  Mason,  381 

Lieut.  Huger  to,  393 

Lieut.  Biles  to,  396,  399 

to  Sergeant  Covington,  397 

to  Lieut.  Biles,  398,  400 

to  Lieut.  Huger,  398 

to  General  Tilton,  400 

General  Tilton  to,  402 
Governor  Stevens  to,                                                                             403,  404,  405 

to  Governor  Stevens,  405 

KEYES,  Captain,  orders  to  Capt.  Hays, 
as  to  list  of  Indian  agents, 
as  to  guard  at  Fort  Nesqually, 
reports  the  death  of  Lieut.  Slaughter, 
as  to  his  instructions,  and  the  enrollment  of  volunteers, 
Governor  Mason  to,  as  to  disbanding  volunteers, 
"          "        "    as  to  Leschi  at  the  reservation, 


VI  INDEX. 


PAGE. 


LANDER,  Capt.,  no  volunteers  accepted,  except  for  general  defence,  346 
"             "        Gen.  Tilton  to,  orders  to  employ  Indians  as  war  party  for  ex- 

.  pedition  up  Duwamish,  347 

"             "        to,  relative  to  "Active''  cruising  on  the  Sound,  348 
"             "to  Tilton,  reports  failure  to  raise  war  party  of  friendly  Indians, 

reasons,  348 
"             "        Tilton  to,  orders  to  concert  measure  to  take  Nelson  and  other 

Indians,  350 
"             "        to  Tilton,  reports  expedition  of  Yesler  and  Lieut.  Neely  to 

lakes,  352 

*  "             "        Tilton  to,  Capt.  Dent  will  make  scout  to  lake  Washington,  356 

"             "        to  Tilton,  reports  Lieut,  Denny's  scout  to  prairies,  356 
"             "        General  Tilton  to,  naval  force  will  protect  Seattle  instead  of 

company  "A,"  359 

LAYTON,  Maj.,  action  on  Burnt  river,  169 

LONE  TREE  POINT,  block-house  built  at,  70-72 


M- 


MALONEY,  Capt.  M.,  ordered  into  the  field,  160 

requision  upon,  for  troops,  arms,  &c.,  180,  181 

report  of,  to  Maj.  Rains,  181 

MASON,  Gov.,  express  to  Gov.  Stevens,  62 

arrangements  of,  for  relief  of  Gov.  Stevens,  65 

letter  to,  Gov.  Douglass  acknowledging  receipt  of  supplies,  103 

requests  arms  and  ammunition  from  Capt.  Sterrit,  103 

"        "        "           "              "        " !   Pease,  104   105 

"  Lieut.  Drake  to  remain,  106 

informs  Capt.  Sterrit  and  Pease  of  the  check  of  Maj.  Haller,  106 

suggests  Seattle  as  the  station  of  the  "Decatur,"  107 

"  the  cruising  ground  of  the  "Jeff.  Davis,"  107 

requests  men  from  the  "Decatur"  for  Fort  Steilacoom,  107 

to  the  officer  commanding  Pacific  squadron,  requesting  a  steamer,  .  108,  109 

Capt.  Sterritt  to,  as  to  a  cruise,  109 

"  "  requesting  arms,  &c.,  110 
to  Capt.  Gansevoort,  requesting  co-operation  with  office  of  the  Indian 

department.  110,  111 

to  Gen.  Wool,  requesting  ammunition,  &c.,  130 

to  ordnance  officer,  as  to  arms,  151 

to  Col.  Ripley,  as  to  arms,  152 
to  Major  Rains,  as  to  affairs  in  the  interior,  •  156,  157 
Major  Rains  to,  .  158,  159,  160 

calls  for  volunteers,  160,  181 

to  Major  Rains,  requesting  arms,  &c.,  161 

to  Lieut.  Withers,  in  reference  to  a  company  of  rangers,  162 

Major  Rains  to,  as  to  operation  in  the  Yakima,  163 

requests  troops  to  move  into  the  Yakima,  180 

Lieut.  Nugen  to,  183 

Capt.  Maloney  to,  as  to  operations  on  White  and  Green  rivers,  186 

requisition  upon  Capt.  Keys  for  arms,  &c.,  188 
Capt.  Keyes  to,  190,  191,  192  196 

to  Capt.  Eaton,  to  raise  rangers,  273 


,                      INDEX.  VU 

PAGE. 

MASON,  Gov.,  orders  to  report  at  Steilacoom,  274 
Capt.  G.  Hays  reports  to,  .  276,  278 
to  Capt.  G.  Hays,  %  277 
Capt.  Hewitt  to,  Capt.  Maloney  falls  back  ;  high  water  prevents'a  junc 
tion,  345. 
Capt.  J.  R.  Jackson  to,  372 
to  Capt.  Kelly,  as  to  organization,  &c.,  380,  381 
Capt:  Kelly  to,  381 
Capt.  McCorkle  to,  383 
Capt.  Strong  to,  387 

MAXON,  Captain,  ordered  to  the  Sound,  69,  238 

general  scouting  orders  to,  292 

to,  confidential  duty  suspended,  scout  South  Bay,  ,                                       297 

from,  reports  scout  to  South  Bay,  Johnson's  Point,  &c.,  299 

to,  ordered  to  scout  up  Nisqually,  and  proceed  to  Connell's,                               300 

sends  in  Wren,  Smith  and  others,  as  prisoners,  301 

reports  scout  to  Michel's  prairie  and  vicinity,  306 

MCALLISTER,  Lieutenant,  183,  186 

McCARVER,  General,  to  Governor  Stevens  as  to  co-operation,  97 

McCLELLAND,  Hon.  R,  B.,  Governor  Stevens  to,  59 

McCORKLE,  instructions  to,  382 
report  of, 

General  Tilton  to,  384 

MILLER,  General,  orders  to  as  to  supplies,  transportation,  &c.^    221,  222,  223, 

[  226,  229,  230,  231,  232.  233,  234 

to  Governor  Stevens.  222,  224,  225,  227,  228 

MILES,  Col.,  killed.  185 

MILLER,  Captain,  report  of  scout  to  Lackamas  prairie.  303 

MOORE,  Lieut.  R.  S.,  reports  Ljeut.  Slaughter's  arrival.  279 

MORRIS,  Col.,  to  Governor  Stevens,  155 

MOSES,  Col.  A.  B.,  killed.  185 

MUCKLESHOOT  PRAIRIE,  regular  troops  at,  71 

head  quarters  of  hostile  Indians.  -  73 

N. 

NACHESS  PASS,  plan  of  movement  over, 
movement  of  troops  over. 

"  NEEL Y ,  Lieut,  ^instructions  to ,  364 

Col.  Fitzhugh  to,  370 

to  Col.  Fitzhugh,  371 

NESMITH,  Col.,  operations  of,  in  the  Yakima.  163 

» 

NEZ  PERCES,  friendly  messages  of,  to  Col.  Shaw, 
exhibit  hostility, 
one-half  become  hostile, 
causes  of  disaffection  of, 
Col,  Wright's  quasi  peace  with. 


VIII 


INDEX. 


NORTHCRAFT,  killed. 

NORTHERN  INDIANS,  attack  upon  by  Captain  Swartwout, 

NUGEN,  Lieut,  as  to  White  river  outbreak, 
calls  for  volunteers, 
as  to  state  of  the  country, 
requests  ammunition,  • 

as  to  the  attack  upon  the  express, 
as  to  the  battle  on  White  river, 
as  to  the  battle  on  Green  river, 
to  Col.  Shaw,  as  to  sufficincy  of  U.  S.  troops. 


0. 


OPERATIONS,  military  condition  of, 
ORDNANCE  OFFICER,  report  of, 

PACK  TRAIN,  capture  of, 
PEABODY,  Captain,  report  of, 

PEASE,  Captain,  furnishes  arms  and  ammunition, 
reports  arrival  at  Steilacoom, 
informed  of  the  check  of  Major  Haller, 
cruising  ground  suggested, 
furnishes  two  twelve  pounders, 
suggestions  as  to  volunteers, 
requests  return  of  guns, 

PEU-PEE-MOX-MOX,  capture  and  death  of, 
influence  of,  to  be  dreaded, 

PIERRE  CHARLES,  to  Governor  Stevens  as  to  scout, 
PLUMMER,  Captain,  company  of,  accepted  into  service. 
PROPERTY,  volunteer,  report  of  sale  of. 
PUGET  SOUND,  defence  of  lower  part  of. 


Q. 


QUARTERMASTER  GENERAL, 'report  of, 
department,  officers  of, 
"  organization  of, 

"  operations  of. 

QUIEMITH,  in  the  Nesqually  bottom. 


PAGE. 

199 

124,  129 

183 
183 
184 
184 
185 
.  185 
186 
209 


71,  76,  81 
57 

47,  48 
330 

104,  105 
105 
106 
107 
108 
108 

116,  117 

64,  65 
159 

380 

318 

95 

320 


50 
',  51 

51 
50,  54 

69* 


RABBESON,  Capt.,  reports  scout  to  Nisqually  and  Puyallup  rivers, 

RAINS,  Major  G.  J.,  to  Gov.  Mason, 
sends  troops  into  the  field, 
as  to  the  fight  of  Major  Haller, 
calls  for  volunteers, 


308 

158,  159 

158,  159 

160 

160 


INDEX.  IX 

PAGE. 

RAINS,  Majos  G.  J.,  requested  to  furnish  arms,  &c.,  161 

operations  of  in  the  Yakima,  1<>3 

Capt.  Maloney  to,  181 

Capt.  Strong  to,  as  to  disbanding,  385 

to  Capt.  Strong,  •>»! 

REGULARS,  relations  between,  and  volunteer?.  6'J,  79 

REINFORCEMENTS,  called  for,  49 

REPORT  of  Adjutant  General,  25 

Capt.  of  engineers,  54 

ordnance  officer,  57 

quartermaster  and  commissary  general ,  50 

Burns,  surgeon,  46 

Shaw,  Lieut.  Col.,  42 

killed  and  wounded  at  Grand  Ronde,  46 

RILEY,  Capt.,  orders  to  build  block-house  at  Lone  Tree  Point,  282 

has  raised  men  and  will  move  to  Lone  Tree  Point.  --'•> 

RIPLEY,  Col.,  Gov.  Mason  to,  152 

to  governor  of  the  territory.  153 

Gov.  Stevens  to,  154 

to  Gov.  Stevens.  !.">;> 

RUSSELL,  Capt,  Governor  Stevens  to,  174,  17.'> 

RUTH,  Adjt.,  reports  block  house  finished  at  Camp  Connell,  289 


S, 


SHAW,  Col.,  report  of,                                                                          .  42 

moves  from  Camp  Montgomery,  83 

i  Ian  of  operations  in  Walla  Walla,  84 
success  of  expedition,                                                                                      85,  86 

appointment  of ,  Assistant  Adjutant  General,  97 

ordered  to  raise  a  company  of  rangers,  162 

march  of,  over  the  Nachess  pass,  168 

battle  of,  at  Grand  Round,  16i 

in  charge  of  expedition  east  of  the  mountains,  234 
instructions  to,                                                                                               235,  236 

receives  commission  of  Assistant  Adjutant  General,  236 

to  Gen.  Tilton  as  to  raising  men  and  horses,  237 

to  Governor  Stevens,  as  to  recruiting  in  Oregon'  239 

battalion  of  ordered 'to  the  Sound,  240 

elected  Lieut.  Col.,  241 

instructions  to,  on  the  line  of  the  Nesqually,  242 

as  to  expedition  across  the  mountains,  244 

recruiting  for  the  expedition,                                        .  245 

sends  an  express  to  Col.  Wright,  247 

determines  to  move  over  the  Nachess  pass,  250 

ordered  to  turn  over  certain  posts  to  Col,  Casey,  251 
instructions  of,  as  to  operations  in  the  interior,                                          252,  255 

reports  arrival  on  the  Wenass,  257 

report  of  march  to  Walla  Walla,  258 

Governor  Stevens  to,  approving  his  operations,  260 
2 


X  INDEX. 

PAGE. 

SHAW,  Col.,  as  to  disposition  of  the  Nez  Perces,  261 

necessity  for  recruits,  262 

Capt.  Goff  to  reporting  battle  of  Burnt  river,  263 

Gov.  Stevens  to,  as  to  raising  additional  forces,  265 

"           "        as  to  council  at  Walla  Walla*  266 

to  Col.  Craig,  as  to  battle  at  Grand  Ronde,  266 

"               "    council  with  the  Nez  Perces,       •  267 

to  the  Chiefs  of  the  Nez  Perces,  268,  270 

to  Governor  Stevens,  as  to  the  council,  268 

to  Col.  Craig,  as  to  the  council  at  Walla  Walla,  269 

to  the  chiefs  of  the  various  friendly  tribes,  270 

to  Col.  Craig,  as  to  the  division  among  the  chiefs,  272 

SLAUGHTER,  Lieut.,  takes  the  field,  158 

falls  back  to  White  river,  182 
battle  of,  at  White  river,                                                                       185,  186,  187 

death  of,  191 

SCRIP,  amount  of  issued,  50,  51,  95 

"        "    cancelled,   •  51,  95 

SEATTLE,  attack  on,  67 

garrisoned  by  volunteers,  70 

naval  forces  at,  '71 

SECRETARY  OF  THE  INTERIOR,  Governor  Stevens  to, 
STARKE,  Col.,  operations  of  at  Cascades, 

STEPTOE,  Lieut.  Col.,  order  of,  59 

sent  to  Walla  Walla,  86 

camp  of,  87 

refusal  of,  ta  comply  with  requisition  of  Gov,  Stevens,  88 

battle  of,  with  the  hostile  Indians,  89 

grass  of,  burnt,  89 

sends  assistance  to  GOT.  Stevens,  90,  91 

builds  a  block  house,  91 

report  of  as  to  conduct  of  volunteers,  93 

"        "        "        "        to  camp  &c.,  176 
"        "        "    as  to  sending  a  force  to  council  ground,                177,  178,  179 

STERRETT,  Capt.,  furnishes  arms,  &c.,  103,  104 

informed  of  the  check  of  Major  Haller,  106 

requested  to  remain  at  Seattle,  106 

to  spare  men  to  defend  Fort  Steilacoom,  101 

as  to  cruising  in  the  Sound,  109 

requesting  arms,  &c.,  110 

STEVENS,  Governor  Isaac  I.,  message  of,  1 
general  orders  of,                                                               36,  37,  38,  40,  41,  47,  48 

letter  of,  to  Hon.  R.  B.,  McClelland,  N59 
"        "       -Jefferson  Davis,        60,  61,  62,  68,  70,  77,  81,  82,  83,  84, 

[  85,  87,  94,  95,  96 

to  Secretary  of  War,  requesting  arms  and  ammunition,  60 

.   "       as  to  the  Walla  Walla  valley,  61 

return  from  Blackfoot  conntry,  62 

receives  intelligence  of  the  war,  62 

council  with  Nez  Perces,  62 


INDEX.  XI 

PAGE. 

STEVENS,  Governor  Isaac  L,  council  with  Cceur  d'Alenes,  63 

"              "              "        with  Spokanes,  63 

Nez  Perces,  allies  of,  64 

troops  for  relief  of,  disbanded  by  Gen.  Wool,      •  65 

prefers  charges  against  Gen.  Wool,  6< 

calls  for  six  companies  of  volunteers,  6( 

raises  a  force  of  friendly  Indians,  6' 

relations  with  Cols.  Casey  and  Wright,  61 
judgment  of,  as  to  the  measures  to  be  adopted,                                        71,  74,  76 

prepares  maps  for  Secretary  of  war,  71 

suggestions  to  Capt.  Gansevoort,  72 

influence  of  ever  Nez  Perces,  75 

reasons  of,  for  six  months  volunteers,  7G 

orders  troops  from  Columbia  river  to  the  Sound,  76 

"      supplies,  &c.,  at  Walla  Walla,  76 

plan  of  operations  of,  77,  81 

organizes  a  troop  of  horsemen  at  Camp  Montgomery,  80 

for  the  Walla  Walla  country,  80 

estimate  of  expenses,  81 

apprehensions  as  to  tribes  between  Cascades  and  Bitter  Root,  82 

disbands  the  volunteers,  84 

council  with  the  Indians  east  of  the  Cascades,  87 

pack  train  of,  captured,  8T 

requisition  of,  on  Col.  Steptoe,  88 

understanding  with  Col.  Wright,  88 

refusal  of  Col.  Steptoe,  88 

opening  of  the  council,  89 

meets  with  Kamiakan,  89 

propositions  to  the  Indians,  89 

attacked  by  the  Indians,  90 

result  of  attack,  91 

Indians  engaged,      •  91 

failure  to  treat  with  Indians,  91 

attempt  of  Looking  Glass  to  betray,                                    ,  92 

issue  with  Col.  Wright  as  to  his  operations,  94 

reports  sales  of  volunteer  property,  95 

appoints  B.  F.  Shaw  Assistant  Adjutant  General.  .  97 

letters  of,  to  Gov.  Curry,  97,  99 

to  Captain  Gansevoort,  111,  112 
to  Captain  Swartwout,                                                          114,  118,  119,  121,  122 

as  to  affairs  in  the  upper  country,  122,  123 
to  General  Wo.ol,                                                                           131-139,  143,  150 

defence  of,  and  state  of  affairs  of  the  country  east  of  the  Cascades,  131-139 

reports  General  Wool,  139 

to'  Col.  Ripley,  154,  155 

Col.  Morris  to,  155 

to  Col.  Wright  as  to  joint  operations,  164 

"        "      as  to  occupation  of  Walla  Walla,  166 

"      a3  to  the  Walla  Walla  and  Snake  river  Indians,  167 

"      as  to  the  march  of  Col.  Shaw,  168 

is  ready  to  take  charge  of  such  Indians  as  become  friendly,  168 

in  reference  to  Leschi,  Nelson,  &c.,  199,  171 

to  Col.  Wright  as  to  affair  at  Grand  Eonde,  169 

to  Col.  Steptoe,  in  reference  to  the  council,  172,  173 


XII  INDEX. 


PAGE. 


STEVENS,  Governor  Isaac  I.,  attack  on  pack  train,  174 

offers  wagon-boat,  174 

to  Captain  Russell,  in  reference  to  the  Council,  174 

"        sending  wagon-boat,  175 

to  Col.  Casey,  as  to  General  arrangements  of  the  volunteer  forces,  176 

as  to  the  occupation  of  Lone  Tree  Point,  178 

to  Col.  Casey,  as  to  Lis  call  for  volunteers,  201 

as  to  operation  of  the  forces  on  the  Snohomish  and  Nesqually     '  204 

as  to  the  Cowlitz  river  pass,  .  205 

proposed  operation  through  the  Snociualinie  pass,  206 

proposes  to  turn  over  certain  posts,  207 

practicability  of  the  Snoqualmie  pass,  208 

orders  certain  posts  to  be  turned  over,  209 

as  to  certain  murders  at  Steilacoom  and  White  river,  210 

as  to  certain  Indians  encamped  at  Fort  Steilacoom.  211 
requisite  assistance  to  capture  Leschi,  &c.,                                                   212,  214 

relative  conduct  of  the  whites  and  Indians  on  the  Sound,  214 

encloses  to  Col.  Casey  instructions  of  Col.  Wright  to  Major  Garnett,  216 
reasons  for  declining  to  receive  the  Indians  encamped  at  Fort  Steilacoom,        219 

reply  of,  to  Col.  Craig's  views,  as  to  treatment  of  Indians,  219 
t6  Gen.  Miller,  as  to  supplies  and  transportation,        221,  222,  223,  220, 

[  229,  230,  231,  232,  233*  234 

puts  Col.  Shaw  in  charge  of  operations  east  of  the  mountains,                  234,  235 
orders  Captain  Maxon  to  the  Sound,  238 
orders  battalion  of  Col.  Shaw  to  the  Sound,  240 
instructions  to  Col.  Shaw  on  the  line  of  the  Xesqually,  242 
to  Col,  Shaw,  as  to  the  expedition  across  the  mountains,  246 
desires  Gapt.  Goff  to  push  forward,  247 
adopts  views  of  Col.  Shaw  as  to  Nachess  pass,  249 
orders  certain"  posts  to  be  turned  over  to  Col.  Casey,  251 
instructions  to  Col.  Shaw  as  to  operations  in  the  interior,                           252,  255 
"           to  Captain  Goff,               "                      "                                   252,  254 
to  Col.  Craig,                                      "  254 
to  Col.  Shaw,  as  to  his  operations  in  the  Yakima,  260 
"        "        as  to  raising  more  volunteers,  265 
as  to  Council  at  Walla  Walla,  266 
Col.  Shaw  to,  as  to  the  Council,  268 
to  Col.  Craig,        "           "  271 
to  Capt.  Swindal,  accepts  service  of  company,  280 
to  Capt.  Henness,  orders  to  scout,  280 
Capt.  Swindall  to,  block-house  at  Skookum  Bay,  281 
"      reports  for  duty  at  Montgomery's,  282 
to  Capt.  Riley,  establish  post  at  Lone  Tree  Point,  282 
to  Capt.  White,  movement  of  troops  and  trainfe  to  Montgomery's,  post  % 
erected,  &c.,  283 
to  Major  Hays,  orders  for  movement  upon  Puyallup,  284 
"      march  to  Muckleshoot,  notes,  &c.,  regard  to,  285 
Major  Hays  to.  reports  arrival  at  Camp  Connell,  proper  place  for  de 
pot,  287 
Major  Hays  to,  reports  fight  with  Indians  at  Council's,  290 
"        "      "    reports  the  completion  of  Fort  Hays,  295 
to  Major  Hays,  expressing  gratification  as  to  his  operations,  297 
to  Capt.  Maxon,  confidential  duty  suspended,  scout  to  South  Bay,  £c.,  297 


INDEX. 


XLII 


STEVENS,  Governor  Isaac  I.,  Major  Hays  to,  reports  completion  of  block-house 

on  White  river  and  general  movements  of  the  enemy, 
Capt.  Miller  to,  reporting  scout  to  Lackamas  prairie  and  surrounding 

country, 

to  Major  Hays,  accepting  resignation, 
to  Capt.  Swiudall,  orders  to  build  block-house  at  South  prairie,  and  to 

communicate  with  Lieut.  Col,  Shaw, 

Capt.  Swiudall  to,    completion  of  block-house  and  sending  out  scout, 
Capt.  Rabbeson  to,  reports  scout  to  Nisqually  and  Puyallup  rivers, 
to  Capt.  Swindall,  orders  to  turn  over  Fort  Hicks  to  Col.  Casey;  Lieut. 
Coles'  company  to  be  disbanded  ;  Lieut.  Neely's  company  move  to 
Seattle  and  disband, 

to  Ebey,  no  volunteers  except  for  six  months,  ordered  to  disband  com 
pany, 

to  Ebey,  requested  to  raise  volunteers  in  Whatcom,  Island,  &c., 
to  Major  Van  Bokkelin,  general  orders  for  Battalion, 
programme  for  defense  of  lower  part  of  Puget  Sound, 

"  "        "        "    Bellmghani  Bay, 

to  Capt.  Ebey,  importance  of  posts  above  Snoqualmie  Palls, 
Van  Bokkeliu  to,  no  transportation  from  Fort  Hays  to  Snoqualmie, 
Van  Bokkelin  to,  no  transportion  from  Fort  Hays  to  Suoquahnie,  and 

description  of  route,  &c., 

to  Van  Bokkelin,  special  thanks  of  Commander-in-chief, 
Van  Bokkelin  to,  reports  scout  to  head  of  Puyallup, 

"  "    Snoqualmie  pass,  snow,  election  of  officers, 

to  Fitzhugh,  msssengers  of  Te-i-ass  and  Owhi,  Indians,  Col.  Shaw, 
Fitzhugh  to,  reports  failure  to  bring  in  Te-i-ass  and  Owhi's  people  and 

the  causes  therefor, 

to  Van  Bokkelin,  wagon  and  pack  train  over  Snoqualmie  pass, 
Van  Bokkelin  to,  reports  from  Snoqualmie  pass, 
to  Capt.  Lander,,  no  volunteers  accepted,  except  for  general  defence, 
Lander  to,  relative  to  "Active"  cruizing  on  Sound, 
to  Crosbie,  notes,  boat  expedition  to  the  lake,  defence  of  Seattle,  block 
houses,  i 
Col.  Fitzhugh  to, 
to  Col.  Crosbie, 
Capt.  Warbass  to, 
to  Col.  Ford, 
Col.  Ford  to, 
Pierre  Charles  to, 
to  Lieut.  Huger, 
to  Capt.  Hathaway, 

to  Capt.  Kelly,  403, 

Capt.  Kelly  to, 


PAGE. 

298 

303 
304 

305 
30G 

308 

310 


SOUTH  PRAIRIE,  post  established  at, 

STRONG,  Capt.  Wm.,,  to  Major  Rains,  as  to  being  disbanded, 
Major  Rains  to, 
to  Gov.  Mason, 
Gen.  Tilton  to, 

SWARTWOUT,  Captain,  Governor  Stevens  to, 
to  Governor  Stevens, 
attack  upon  thfe  Northern  Indians, 


320 
321 
322 
326 

226,  227 

,  328 

329 

336 

337 

339 
340 
341 
346 

348 

350 

368,  370 
•  375 
376 
377 
378 
380 

589,  394 
392 

404,  405 
405 

78 

385 
386 

387 
388 


72,  114,  118,  119,  121,  122 

115,  120,  123,  124 

124-129 


XIV  INDEX. 


PAGE. 


SWINDALL,  Captain,  Gov.  Stevens  to,  accepting  service,  280 

builds  block  house,  Skookum  Bay,  281 
reports  for  duty  at  Montgomery's, 
ordered  to  build  block  house  on  South  Prairie,  and  communicate  with 

Col.  Shaw,  305 

reports  completion  of  block  house,  and  sending  out  scouts,  306 

"        scout  up  Nisqually  and  killing  Indians,  309 

T. 

TENALQUOT  PLAINS,  block  house  built  at,  78 

TILTON,  Adjutant  General,  to  Gov.  Douglass,  requesting  supplies,  &c.,  100 
Gov.  Douglas's  letters  to,  sending  supplies,                                                101,  102 

C  aptain  Pease  to,  1 08 

to  Captain  Alden,as  to  ammunition  and  transportation,  113 

Captain  Alden  to,  113 
Captain  Pease  to,                                                                                       116,  117 

to  Captain  Pease,  116 
Lieut.  Nugen  to,                                                                     183, 184,  185,  188,  200 

as  to  death  of  White  and  Northcraft,  '  199 

to  Gen.  Miller,  as  to  enrolling  troops,  233 

to  Col.  Crosbie,  238 
Captain  DeLacy  to, 

Col.  Shaw  to,    '  250,  257,  258 

Capt.  Wallace  reports  for  duty  to,  276 

to  Captain  Wallace,  278 

Lieut.  R.  S.  Moore,  reports  to,  279 
to  Captain  G.  Hays,  orders, 

to  Major  Hays,  suggestions  for  post  at  Council  s,  approved, 

from  Adjutant  Ruth  to,  reports  block  house  erected  at  Council's,  289 

to  Capt.  Maxon,  general  scouting  orders,  292 
to  Major  Hays,  tendering   thanks  for  gallantry  of  officers  and  men  at 

battle  of  Council's  prairie,  294 

Capt.  Maxon  to,  reports  scout  to  South  Bay,  Johnson's  Point,  &c.,  293 

"        "        orders  to  Scout  up  Nesqually,  and  proceed  to  Council's,  300 

Maxon  to,  sends  Wren,  Smith  and  others  as  prisoners,  301 

to  Major  Hays,  orders  to  open  road  from  Fort  Hays  to  South  prairie, 

and  build  block  house  there,  302 
to  Hays,  advises  him  of  Maxon's  fight,  and  orders  a  march  to  head  of 

Nisqually  to  open  road,  &c., 

Maxon  to,  reports  scout  to  Michel's  prairie,  and  vicinity,  \  306 

Svindall  to,  reports  scout  up  Nesqually,  and  killing  Indians,  309 
(    to  Lieut.  Huger,  ordered  to  inspect  and  report  upon  rourt  from  Connell's 

to  Snoqualmie  pass  for  teams,  &c.,  310 
Captain  Ebey  to,  reports  organizing  of  company  on  Whidby's  Island, 

with  views  of  operations  on  lower  part  of  Sound,  311 

"  "     reports  Northern  Rangers  organized,  312 

to  Capt.  Ebey,  company  accepted,  guard  against  collision  with  friendly  314 

tribes,             .  314 
Ebey  to,  his  command  on  Snohomish,  Pat  Kanim  at  his  camp,  315 
"    "     reports  even  chances  of  hostility  or  friendship  of  the  Snoqual 
mie,  and  Skawamish  tribes,  315 


INDEX.  XV 

PAGE. 
« 
TILTQN  to  Bbey,  expedition  up  Snoqualmie  suspended;  keep  company  at  Port 

Townsend,  317 
"    "     ordered  to  garrison  the  block-house  at  Crescent  harbor,  317 
to  Captain  Plummer;  company  accepted  into  service,  318 
Van  Bokkelen  to,  reports  his  expedition  up  Snoqualmie  river,  and  build 
ing  Fort  Tilton,  323 
Capt.  Howe  to;  has  marched  np  Snoqualmie  river,  324 
Captain  Peabody ,  reports  to ,  330 
Howe               "  332 
to  Van  Bokkelen,  orders  to  turn  over  to  Col.  Shaw  the  post  occupied 

by  him  and  proceed  to  Nachess  pass,  333 

Van  Bokkelen  to,  requires  oxen  at  Ranger's  prairie,  33  6 

"        reports  return  from  Snoqualmie  pass,  and  scouts  from 

Yakima,  343 
to  Capt.  Hewett,  sends  commission,  with  ordefs  to  report  to  Captain 

Malony,  344 
"           "    steamer  "  Traveler  "  will  convey  Company  "H"  to  junc 
tion  of  White  and  Green  rivers,  346 
to  Captain  Lander,  orders  to  employ  Indians  as  war  party  for  expedition 

up  Duwamsh,  347 

Lander  to,  fails  to  raise  war  party  of  friendly  Indians,  reasons,  348 

to  Col.  Crosbie,  ordered  to  Seattle;  boat  expedition  to  Lake  Duwamsh,  350 
to  Lander,  ordered  to  concert  measures  to  apprehend  Nelson  and  other 

Indians,  351 

Lander  to,  reports  expedition  of  Yessler  and  Lieut  Neely  to  lakes,  352 

to  Lander,  Captain  Dent  will  make  scout  to  lake  Washington,  356 

Lander  to,  reports  Lt.  Denny's  scout  to  prairie,  35f 

to  Lander,  naval  force  will  protect  Seattle,  instead  of  Co.  A,  3' 
to  Lieut.  Denny,  ordered  to  march  to  Fort  Hays, 
Lieut.  Denny  to,  declines  to  obey  marching  orders, 

to  Lieut.  Denny,  as  to  cutting  road,  >  361 

"  •     suspending  him  from  command,  364 

instructions  of  to  Lieut.  Neely,  364 

"  to  Col.  Fitzhugh,  as  to  Company  A,        ,  367 

"  to  Col.  Crosbie,  .  373 

Col.  Crosbie  to,  373,  376 

Captain  Warbase  to,  '.  379 

instructions  of,  to  Captain  McCorkle,  382,  384 

to  Captain  Bratton,  385 

to  Captain  Strong,  388 

to  Lieut.  Huger,  391 

Lieut.  Huger  to,  394,  395 

Captain  Kelly  to,  400 

to  Captain  Kelly,  402 

•  Lieut.  Biles  to,  402 

V. 

VAN  BOKKELIN,  Maj.,  general  orders  for  battalion.  320 

reports  his  expedition  up  Snoqualmie  river  and  building  Fort  Tilton,  323 
to  Gov.  Stevens  ;  no  transportation  from  Fort  Hays  to  Snoqualmie  ; 

description  of  route,  &c.,  326,  327 

Gov.  Stevens  to,  special  thanks  of  Commander-in-chief,  328 


XVI  INDEX. 

PAGE. 

VAN  BOKKELEN,  Maj.  to  G»v.  Stevens,  reports  scout  to  head  of  Puyallup,  829 
Tilton  to,  orders  to  turn  over  to  Col.  Shaw  the  post  occupied  by  his  com 
mand  and  proceed  to  Nahchess  pass,  333 
to  Gen.  Tilton,  report  of  march  from  Fort  Hays  to  Rangers'  prairie,  335 
"           "        requires  oxen  at  Rangers'  prairie,  336 
to  Gov.  Stevens,  Snoqualmie  pass,  snow,  election  of  officers,  &c.,  336 
Gov.  Stevens  to,  wagon  and  pack  trains  over  Snoqualmie  pass,  340 
to  Gov.  Stevens,  report  from  Suoqualmie  pass,  341 
to  Gen.  Tilton,  reports  return  from  Suoqualmie  pass  and  scouts  from 
Yakima, 

VOLUNTEERS,  relations  between,  and  regulars,  69,  79 

disbanding  of,                                                           •  84,  86 

conduct  of,  93 

called  for  by  Lieut.  Nugen,  183 

Col.  Casey,  200 

W.    . 

. 

WALLA  WALLA  VALLEY,  as  a  site  for  a  military  post,  61 

troops  organized  for,  80 

ferry  necessary  at,  80 

supplies  should  be  accumulated  at,  80 

success  of  expedition  to,  85 

'ALLACE,  Capt.  W.  H.,  183,  184,  185,  187 

reports  for  duty,  276 

ordered  to  report  to  Capt.  Maioney,  278 

^BASS,  Capt.,  to  Gov.  Stevens, 
to  Gen.  Tilton, 

.  j*.Li,  notice,  49 

origin  of,  2 

ground,  71 

west  of  Cascades,  77,  79 

east  of  Cascades,                                                       .  79.  81 

WHITE,  Capt.,  ordered  to  move  to  montgomery's,  ..283 

WHITE,  Wm.,  killed,  199 

WITHERS,  Lieut.,  will  equip  the  volunteers,  162 

Gov.  Mason  to,  162 

WOOL,  Gen.,  disbands  troops  for  relief  of  Gov.  Stevens,  65 

statements  of,  65,  66 

charges  preferred  against,  66 

visits  the  Sound,  74 

directs  Col.  Casey  to  make  requisition  for  two  companies  of  volunteers,  74 

points  of  difference  between,  and  GOT.  Stevens,  75 

what  sent  here  for,  93 

to  Governor  of  Territory,  130 

Gov.  Mason  to,  130 
Gov.  Stevens  to,                                                                             131,  139,  143,  150 

returns  letters  of  Gov.  Stevens,  150,  151 


INDEX. 


XVII 


WRIGHT,  Col.,  operations  of, 

march  of  into  the  Yakima, 

meets  with  the  Inndians, 

attempts  to  treat, 

sends  for  reinforcements, 

delay  on  the  Nahchess, 

sends  Col.  Steptoe  to  Walla  Walla, 

understanding  of  Gov.  Stevens  with, 

management  of,  in  the  Yakima, 

the  cause  of  the  disaffection  of  the  Nez  Perces, 

quasi  peace  of,  with  the  Nez  Perces, 

to  Gov.  Stevens,  as  to  his  plan  of  operations, 

Indians  living  by, 

does  not  intend  to  occupy  Walla  Walla, 

in  reference  to  Leschi,  Nelson,  &c., 

YAKIMA  COUNTBY,  operations  of  Col.  Wright  in, 
supplies  should  be  accumulated  in, 


PAGE. 

75) 

79 

79 

79 

79 

82 

86 

88 

92 

92 

94 

165 

166 

167 

170 

79 
80 


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